In Nigeria today, national discourse is too often overshadowed by partisan passions. The lines between patriotism and politics have blurred, leaving many citizens unable to separate personal bias from objective national interest. Yet, true patriotism requires exactly that the courage to look beyond political leanings, to recognize and applaud progress wherever it occurs, and to criticize constructively when necessary.
Recognizing Progress Beyond Politics
Every citizen, regardless of political persuasion, shares in the rewards and consequences of national policy. When the nation achieves progress whether through economic reform, infrastructure growth, or improved governance the benefit is collective.
Recent efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s financial credibility, such as the reclassification of grey money and improvement in our international financial ratings, are examples of technical but crucial progress. These developments influence cross-border transactions, investor perception, and the financial security of every Nigerian.
Such achievements should not be dismissed or trivialized simply because of political disagreement with the sitting president. President Tinubu’s administration, like those before it, should be assessed on measurable outcomes, not partisan sentiment. Recognizing national progress is not political loyalty — it is civic honesty.
Citizenship Must Remain Above Partisanship
Our title as citizens should never be surrendered to any political party, especially not to factions that profit from division or perpetual resentment. Nigeria is far greater than any political organization or individual. To “see no good” in one’s country simply because of who occupies a temporary seat of power is a disservice to democracy.
There is a troubling culture in which cynicism is mistaken for intellect, and unrelenting criticism for activism. Constructive opposition strengthens democracy, but bitterness disguised as dissent corrodes it. Objective balance the ability to celebrate success and challenge failure with equal integrity is the mark of a mature society.
A Call for Honest Patriotism
Every administration, including that of President Tinubu, must be held accountable. Accountability ensures progress, but acknowledgment of genuine achievement ensures fairness. The two must coexist for democracy to thrive.
To love Nigeria is not to defend wrongdoers, nor to condemn every effort of government. True patriotism is honesty calling right “right” and wrong “wrong,” without fear or favor. It is also hope the conviction that, despite our imperfections, we can build a nation worth believing in.
When Nigerians learn to separate political bias from national interest, we will build not just a louder democracy, but a stronger one. A democracy sustained not by propaganda or division, but by reason, dialogue, and shared purpose.
Forward Together
The path to greatness is collective. Leaders must govern with transparency and vision; citizens must engage with fairness and open minds. It is this partnership that drives true progress.
Let us therefore rise above partisan noise and rediscover our shared duty to push Nigeria’s national train forward with unity, objectivity, and faith in the future.
Congratulations, Nigeria. Forward ever.
