Former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega and Information Minister Alhaji Mohammed Idris called for a renewed sense of patriotism and national duty among Nigerians. Their remarks came during the ‘Rise Up Patriots’ conference, themed ‘Take Pride in Our Nation,’ organized by the Unveiling and Rebranding Nigeria Initiative (URNI) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information and other federal agencies.

In his keynote address, Jega highlighted the need for unity and civic engagement, emphasizing the role of patriots in overcoming national challenges. He praised the leadership of Nigeria’s First Republic for laying a solid foundation for nation-building but expressed concern over current issues like poverty and the emigration of young Nigerians, often referred to as the ‘japa’ phenomenon. He urged citizens to stay engaged by voting, paying taxes, and constructively critiquing governance to ensure accountability and reform.

Minister Idris, represented by National Orientation Agency (NOA) Director-General Mallam Lanre Isa Onilu, introduced the National Identity Project, an initiative to strengthen national unity. This project includes the ‘Seven Pillars of the Nigerian Promise’ and ‘Citizen Codes,’ intended to foster mutual commitments between citizens and government. Idris noted, “Patriotism is deeply emotional and cannot be legislated. It is inspired through shared values and a sense of purpose.”

URNI Patron Ambassador Hassan Tukur called for leadership rooted in character and competence, urging a return to values that bridge ethnic and religious divides. He stressed the need for job creation, resource mobilization, and citizen unity to tackle Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.