Diversity Our Strength: Different Tongues, One Nation

Since the attainment of independence in 1960, Nigeria has been grappling with how to ensure unity in diversity among its various ethnic groups. Successive governments have strategized different mechanisms aimed at promoting national integration including the establishment of the National Youth Service Corps, the building of Unity Schools, state and locality creation, implementation of a Federal Character principle, and the zoning of power positions, among several public policies. Despite these measures, Nigeria remains divided and prone to sectarian violence. The article stresses the need for peace education,  national loyalty instead of ethnic or tribal loyalty, and tolerance among the citizens.