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Special Report:Nigerians’ And Waning Patriotism ,Experts Calls for Reform

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Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa- NIGERIAN TRACKER correspondent

Amid growing demands for institutional reforms across Nigeria, a concerning disconnect exists between citizens and the spirit of patriotism a vital catalyst for the very change they seek. Many fail to recognize that patriotism serves as the driving force behind national transformation, a quality currently in short supply among the populace.

Increasingly, Nigerians feel no sense of duty toward their country, with some even viewing national identity as a mark of shame. This raises a critical question: How can meaningful reform take root when such disillusionment persists?

In an effort to investigate the causes and potential solutions to this growing apathy, Nigerian Tracker News correspondent Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa consulted experts for insights:

Historical Roots of Unpatriotism

Political scientist Chukwuemeka Precious Chidiebere traced the issue back to Nigeria’s pre-independence era, where loyalty was often divided along ethnic and tribal lines.

“Even before independence, the patriotism displayed by leaders was largely tied to ethnic and tribal affiliations,” Chidiebere noted. “This division fueled the civil war an unequivocally unpatriotic conflict.”

He emphasized that true patriotism hinges on unity and upholding national values, qualities he argued were absent in past leadership.

When asked about the impact of poor governance on citizens’ loyalty, Chidiebere was unequivocal: “Leaders have normalized broken promises, breeding political apathy another form of unpatriotism. Poor leadership is undeniably a major factor in the erosion of national loyalty.”

Comparing Nigeria to other African nations, he observed that the country ranks low in patriotism, attributing this to systemic governance failures.

Leadership Failures Fuel Disillusionment

Sociologist Isah Imran expanded on the discussion, criticizing Nigerian leaders for failing to set a patriotic example.

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“Many of our leaders seek medical care, education, and investments abroad resources that could strengthen local institutions,” Imran stated. “This contradicts core patriotic values: sacrifice, national pride, and faith in domestic systems.”

A Path Forward

Despite these challenges, both experts expressed cautious optimism about Nigeria’s future.

Imran outlined key prerequisites for progress: “Good governance led by honest, transparent leaders is essential to rebuilding trust. Nigerians must also prioritize national identity over ethnic divisions.”

Echoing this sentiment, Chidiebere stressed that unity can only be achieved when discourse transcends tribal and ethnic biases.

As calls for reform grow louder, the experts’ message is clear: without a resurgence of patriotism from both leaders and citizens Nigeria’s path to meaningful change remains uncertain.

Voices From Ordinary Nigerians

Various Nigerians shared their candid opinion on how they feel about the country:

Omeiza Alfa, a 200 level student of engineering was asked if he considers himself a patriotic Nigerian and he responded, “Honestly, I don’t know if I am one.”

When asked why, he said: “with the level of suffering and the economic situation of the country, I am considering leaving the country for greener pastures–which is certainly not a patriotic mindset.”

Another respondent, Nazir Musa, was of the opinion that if given the opportunity to change one thing that could make Nigerians more patriotic, he will definitely recommend a drastic reform in the governance system of the country:

“It’s in this country that Nigerian senators are earning in millions of naira excluding their allowances–more than the professors that are serving as lecturers in the universities,” “no professor in Nigerian universities earn close to a million naira,” he criticized.

“So if I could change one thing to make Nigerians more patriotic, it will definitely be the system of governance where lecturers will be well compensated and our graduates gainfully employed,” Mr. Nazir proposed.

Sodiq Oluwatele Jimoh, a final year student of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, was also of the same opinion that he isn’t sure if he is a patriotic Nigerian:

“Although, I will never try anything to break the law in the country but, being a patriotic citizen is something I am not sure of.”

When asked why, Mr. Jimoh responded that he is political apartheid:

“I don’t vote. As a matter of fact, I don’t even have voter’s card,” he added.

Mr. Sodiq also recommended that for Nigerians to be patriotic, there should be good governance, and for that to happen, allowances and salaries of the elected political office holders should be reduced in such a manner that only those with genuine intention to make good impacts in the country will contest for elections.

From professionals to everyday citizens, the consensus is clear: tangible governance reforms not just rhetoric are essential to restoring faith and patriotism among Nigerians.

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Shock as Hoodlums Kill NSCDC Officer on Duty

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There was an outrage in Kano on Friday following the killing of a Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) volunteer, Abdurrauf Sheriff, who was allegedly stabbed to death by suspected hoodlums while on official duty.

The fatal incident occurred along Gyadi Gyadi Court Road, where the volunteer was reportedly carrying out his assigned responsibilities before he was attacked the hoodlums on the night of New year celebration by Kano State Governor.

Confirming the development in a statement, the Kano State Command of the NSCDC strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a violent and unacceptable act against a personnel lawfully discharging his duty.

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The statement, issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Abdullahi, disclosed that four suspects had been arrested in connection with the incident.

“The Command wishes to inform the general public that four suspects were arrested with dangerous weapons including a hacksaw, Danbida and drugs. They are currently in custody and assisting security agencies with investigations to ensure that justice is served,” Abdullahi stated.

Reacting to the tragic loss, the State Commandant of the NSCDC in Kano, Commandant Mohammed Hassan Agalama, expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and reassured residents of the Corps’ commitment to maintaining security across the state.

He further emphasized the NSCDC’s resolve to collaborate with other security agencies to combat criminal activities and protect lives and property.

According to the statement, preliminary findings have classified the incident as culpable homicide, and the case will be transferred to the Nigerian Police for further investigation and prosecution.

The Command also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and continue to support security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid crime-fighting efforts in the state.

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Special Advisers’ Forum Endorses Governor Yusuf’s Political Moves

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The Special Advisers’ Forum in Kano State has formally endorsed the political direction of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing his leadership as pivotal to the peace and progress of the state. Dr. Idris Salisu Rogo, Secretary of the Forum, made this known while addressing journalists in Kano.

Dr. Rogo explained that politics is inherently dynamic, with varying opinions, alignments, and perspectives forming a natural part of democratic society. He stressed that, despite these differences, the Forum believes political engagement must be guided by mutual respect, maturity, decorum, and a shared commitment to the stability of Kano State.

According to Dr. Rogo, the Forum is urging all political actors, appointees, party members, supporters, and the general public to exercise restraint in their statements and actions. He warned that the use of inflammatory language, personal attacks, threats, or the disclosure of private communications undermines public trust and distracts from governance. He added that Kano State has a commendable history of political awareness and civility that must be preserved.

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Dr. Rogo emphasized that Governor Yusuf, as the Executive Governor of Kano State, holds ultimate authority over political direction and decision-making. He noted that the Forum affirms its unwavering loyalty and alignment with any political decisions taken by the Governor in the interest of the state and its citizens.

The Forum, according to Dr. Rogo, has pledged collective support to the Governor as he continues his efforts toward good governance, people-focused policies, infrastructural development, social welfare initiatives, and reforms that positively impact residents. He maintained that the progress achieved across key sectors under Yusuf’s leadership is evident and deserves protection and consolidation.

Dr. Rogo further called on stakeholders to prioritize the interests of Kano State above personal feelings or political rivalries. He said unity within government and respect among political actors are vital for stability, effective governance, and the realization of the administration’s vision.

Dr. Rogo stated that the Special Advisers’ Forum remains committed to fostering dialogue, internal cohesion, and responsible communication in support of Governor Yusuf’s leadership and the overarching development agenda for Kano State.

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BUK Vice Chancellor Applauds Alumni ’92 for Decade of Support, Outlines Strategic Growth Path

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The Vice Chancellor of Bayero University Kano (BUK), Professor Haruna Musa, has commended the BUK Class of 1992 for its “uninterrupted 10-year tradition” of philanthropy.

Speaking at the group’s 33rd Anniversary dinner and 10th reunion, Professor Musa celebrated a fresh ₦5 million donation from the alumni to the university’s Indigent Students’ Account, noting that such partnerships are vital to the university’s strategic growth.

The Vice Chancellor outlined an ambitious vision to propel BUK into the top 500 universities globally. He highlighted the institution’s impressive trajectory in the 2026 World University Rankings by Times Higher Education, which ranked BUK as the 3rd best university in Nigeria and the premier university in Northern Nigeria.

To address operational challenges, Professor Musa announced significant advancements in infrastructure and energy independence. The Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has commenced a 3.5-megawatt solar plant upgrade, with plans to scale capacity to six megawatts. Furthermore, in collaboration with the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, the university has secured a site for the construction of 500 housing units for staff.

The Vice Chancellor also reaffirmed a zero-tolerance policy toward cultism and examination malpractice. He specifically flagged the misuse of ICT facilities as a new frontier for academic dishonesty and directed the university management to sensitize students on the ethical use of technology.

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Innovative Student Welfare Initiatives
To bridge funding gaps for less privileged students, the university will officially launch a university-wide endowment fund in 2026 under the chairmanship of Professor Attahiru Jega. The University Senate has also adopted a resolution to grant automatic suspension of studies for students unable to afford registration fees, ensuring they do not drop out entirely. Students are encouraged to utilize the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) and take up part-time campus jobs.

The Chairman of the BUK ’92 Forum, Muhammad Dahiru Sa’ad, highlighted that the forum has spent the last decade providing medical outreach to hospitals, supporting widows of late colleagues, and assisting former lecturers. He specifically noted that the group recently facilitated the return of several medical students who had been suspended due to unpaid fees.

Chairman Sa’ad also praised the Vice Chancellor for securing strategic MOUs, including a ₦60 million scholarship deal with OPay Digital Services and agricultural mechanization research partnerships with Chinese institutions.

The anniversary festivities concluded with a medical outreach at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and an awards ceremony where Professor Musa and other distinguished alumni were honoured for their contributions to the university’s development.

Honourees included leading academics, senior public officers, security personnel, corporate executives, and politicians. Among them were Prof. Amina Sani Mu’azu, Prof. M.A. Suwaid, Prof. Hajara Umar Sanda, Prof. Hannatu Sabo Hadejia, Prof. Baffa Adamu Gwaram, Engr. Ibrahim Sani Abdul, and Dr. Bello Lawal Dambatta.

Others recognised were CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, CP Ali Umar Fagge, CP Ibrahim Maikaba, CIS Hussain Ibrahim, Amb. Yakubu Abdullahi Ahmad, and Amb. Musa Sani Nuhu.

Additional recipients included Alh. Muhammad Aliyu Wudil, Alh. Rabi’u Musa Dambatta, Alh. Al‑Amin Ibrahim, Alh. Kabiru Yuguda, Alh. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, Alh. Umar Sanda Kuso, Pastor Clement Oniwanye, and Yushau Shuaib Idiagbon.

 

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