Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country is often described as a “mere geographical expression” rather than a true nation. More than six decades after gaining independence, the Nigerian identity remains weak, overshadowed by deep-seated ethnic and religious affiliations.
Many Nigerians feel a stronger attachment to their tribes and religions rather than to the country itself, leading to a lack of national ownership and patriotism. This disconnect manifests in widespread corruption, mismanagement of national resources, and a collective disinterest in Nigeria’s progress—except when it comes to sports, where national unity briefly emerges. The absence of a strong sense of nationhood continues to undermine Nigeria’s development, as its citizens prioritize personal and tribal gains over national interest.
*Tribalism and Religious Allegiance Over National Identity*
Nigeria is a deeply divided society where ethnic and religious loyalties take precedence over national unity. The country consists of over 250 ethnic groups, with the three largest—Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo—often acting as separate entities rather than unified Nigerians. Many citizens see the government and public institutions through the lens of ethnicity and religion rather than national service. Political appointments, employment opportunities, and even access to public services are often determined by tribal or religious affiliations rather than merit. This fosters an “us versus them” mentality, where people support leaders not based on competence but on shared ethnicity or religious beliefs.
During elections, voters frequently align with candidates from their ethnic or religious groups/backgrounds, regardless of their track record or ability to lead. Political parties exploit these divisions, fueling sentiments of “our turn to rule” rather than focusing on national progress. The result is a system where leaders are primarily loyal to their ethnic bases rather than the country as a whole.
*Corruption and Looting: The “National Cake” Mentality*
The lack of national ownership is perhaps most evident in the way Nigerians treat public resources. The prevailing mindset is that government wealth belongs to no one in particular, making it free for looting. This has given rise to the infamous “national cake” mentality, where individuals and groups scramble to take their share of the country’s wealth with little regard for future generations. From political leaders to civil servants, many see public office as an opportunity to enrich themselves and their tribes rather than to serve the nation.
Public infrastructure suffers as funds meant for development are diverted into private pockets. Roads, hospitals, schools, and power projects are left incomplete or poorly maintained because those entrusted with the funds see them as personal rewards rather than national investments. When individuals do not feel a sense of ownership of the country, they do not see corruption as theft from a shared national treasure but as a means of securing benefits for themselves and their communities.
The Rare Unity in Sports
Ironically, one of the few areas where Nigerians exhibit national pride is in sports, particularly football. During international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup or the Africa Cup of Nations, tribal and religious differences temporarily fade as Nigerians unite behind their national teams. This phenomenon raises an important question: Why does national identity surface only in sports and not in governance, infrastructure, or economic development? The answer lies in the lack of direct personal or tribal benefits from sports victories. Unlike politics or resource control where individuals and ethnic groups stand to gain financially, sports provide a rare common ground where national success benefits everyone equally.
The Need for a National Identity Movement
If Nigeria is to overcome its deep-rooted divisions and build a true nation, it must cultivate a sense of national ownership among its citizens. This begins with leadership that prioritizes national unity over ethnic or religious favoritism. Education should emphasize civic responsibility and national history, teaching young Nigerians to see themselves as Nigerians first, before identifying with their tribes.
A stronger legal framework is also necessary to enforce accountability in governance and resource management. If corruption is treated as a crime against the nation rather than a tribal or political issue, there will be greater public interest in holding leaders accountable. National developmental projects should be implemented equitably across regions to foster a sense of belonging among all Nigerians.
Furthermore, national symbols and programs that promote unity—such as a revived National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with a stronger emphasis on integration, cross-cultural exchange programs, and national celebrations—can help create a shared sense of purpose. Nigeria must find ways to replicate the national unity seen in sports across other aspects of society.
Conclusion
Nigeria’s lack of national ownership stems from deep ethnic and religious divisions, which have eroded patriotism and fueled corruption. The absence of a strong sense of nationhood has resulted in a system where citizens see the government as an entity to exploit rather than a shared institution to protect and develop. However, the fleeting moments of unity seen in sports prove that Nigerians can come together under the right circumstances. To build a true nation, there must be deliberate efforts to foster a collective identity, promote good governance, and instill a sense of responsibility for the country’s future. Only then can Nigeria rise above its tribal and religious divisions to fulfill its potential as a united and prosperous nation.
Ade Oriade, Ph.D.
