Nigerians not united after 100 years of amalgamation – Goodluck Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said that despite 100 years of amalgamation, Nigerians have yet to appreciate the benefits of unity.

Jonathan said the decision of Nigerians to be more loyal to their ethnic nationalities than to the country is hampering progress.

He spoke during a forum in Effurun, Delta State, Jonathan said: “We must begin to take the whole country as our people if we are to get out of this quagmire.

“Nigeria is not the only country with multiple nationalities, but it remains a place where people have yet to see themselves as common citizens of one nation. As long as this persists, genuine development will remain elusive.

“After over 100 years of amalgamation, Nigerians should have recognized the benefits of unity, especially given our geography and ecological diversity.

“Yet, from that time to now, we have failed to develop the sense of unity required to see ourselves as one.

“Currently, the forces pulling us apart are too strong. We must weaken the divisions along ethnic and regional lines and embrace the idea of a united nation.

“We are more loyal to our ethnic groups than to the nation. Nigeria, as it stands, is a collection of small ethnic nationalities, each prioritizing its interests. Over time, the divisions between these groups have only deepened.”