Unity and faith, peace and progress

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The first of October marks a yearly celebration of independence in Nigeria. The question is; what does independence mean to you?

As relative and diverse as the context of independence may mean to individuals; on this day Nigerians jointly celebrate the ‘unity’ and sovereignty of the most populous black nation in the world.

We are a product of influence, which can either be bad or good. Being a remarkably diverse set of people, it is not surprising that we identify first with what promotes our immediate interest, sometimes at the expense of collective good. This may be due to the absence of a guiding national ethos that every Nigerian can identify with.

Identity is who we are at our core, not our responsibilities or duties. It comes from our beliefs, values and principles, which are extensions of the truths we’ve found and choose to defend.

We speak of unity, yet the average Nigerian readily identifies with his tribe because there are certain guiding principles that form the construct of said tribe.

‘Igbos are communal’

“Efik women are great homemakers’

With who is a Nigerian however, we are expected to read between already blurred lines.

The only exception being when we’re in a different country or supporting our national sports team, then all tribalism is cast aside.

Our identity as Nigeria is not based on our tribe, as the part is never more important than the whole. It is based on the realization that Nigeria is a total sum of its parts and when one part is affected, it affects the whole.

Whether you’re from the North, East, West or South, be the change you expect to see in your Nigeria. We don’t always have to agree, we just have to allow diversity.

For Unity and faith; Peace and Progress.

Remember Freedom is Peace, Optimism is Nature. Action is always within reach. BE MORE!

If you found this article relatable, let me know what you think in the comments. Do you want to live more intentionally and develop your gifts/talents for maximum impact? Feel free to reach me via email: [email protected]. You can also connect with me via;

Instagram @identitycoach

Twitter @identitycoach1

Facebook @YBBidentitycoach

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yetunde Bankole-Bernard is ‘The identity Coach™”

Certified as an Image Consultant, Human connection and Personality type practitioner and Work place psychologist.