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.

“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.