The Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has said Nigeria is not merit-driven, adding that the Nigerian system must find a way to celebrate and promote merit.
“I believe there must be a way to drive and balance this. We need to create a space where everyone can thrive which promotes merit,” the governor said on Thursday while delivering a lecture on patriotism and citizenship at the Yoruba Tennis Club event in Lagos State.
The governor also explained why Nigeria is battling declining patriotism among her citizens, saying the stakeholders must right the wrongs to elicit the spirit of patriotism among the populace.
He said the mistrust and several heartbreaks the citizens have suffered were responsible for declining patriotism in the country.
The governor maintained the wave of ‘japa syndrome’ was informed by Nigerians’ quest to have a better life and live where the system works.
He said purposeful leadership and accountability must be entrenched by leaders across the country to build trust among Nigerians, adding that this would ensure Nigeria remains a country where patriotism can thrive.
According to him, national unity and inclusivity are paramount in eliciting patriotism among Nigerians.
“We must strengthen our national symbol and tradition. Reviving patriotism is a task for all of us. We must all work together to foster and rekindle the flames of patriotism in our country by promoting unity,” Uzodimma said.
