One Nigeria is a Myth: I’m Not Convinced That it’s Achievable

“I don’t believe in one Nigeria”- Tinubu. The story, published by Thisday April 13, 1997, concluded that Nigeria’s fragmentation is inevitable. I must admit that I have succumb to the wisdom of BAT, my opinion is in a cordial agreement with his view in the late 90s.

Nigeria’s amalgamation, from inception, was never driven by unity rather economic reasons. The southern and northern protectorates were amalgamated by Frederick Lugard in 1914. Lugard was a British colonial administrator and Governor-General of southern and northern Nigeria, he was to eventually put together what is today known as Nigeria.

Driven by complex parcel of factors, including: the sought for raw materials and economic interests, political power, scientific curiosity, etc, colonialism has a far reaching consequences. Therefore, the idea of one Nigeria was manifesting the concept of colonialism not to foster unity among Nigerians.

Nigeria is distinguished by its diverse historical, cultural , and socio-political factors, it is a nation that comprises a varying beliefs and ideas, religious difference, ethnic disparities, different language, and complex history. These diversities, coupled with economic inequality, colonial legacy, poor governance, etc., have proven Nigeria’s unity impossible.

I often find myself wondering, is Nigeria is curse or blessing? Prior to amalgamation, unity was a driving force behind regional prosperity. However, when colonialism forced them into uneasy alliances, unity became an alien concept. When disparate regions are forcibly merged, it inevitably lead to feelings of marginalization among some group and dominance by others. Nigeria is no exception.

The recent attack on some innocent northerners in Edo has reinforced my skepticism regarding Nigeria’s unity. The arsonic murder of these innocent individuals by Edo’s bad actors is a reminder of past conflicts and their unstrungly devastating consequences. It has suffocated my national pride. Failure to take a decisive action might force the northerners to tread the same path, which could be catastrophic for the entire nation.

In my opinion, Nigeria’s unity could be achieved only after dismantling the colonial legacy and replacing it with a shared vision and values that Nigerian can rally behind. Until then, Nigeria looms at the brink of collapsing.

Deedat writes from Kano, Nigeria.
March 30, 2025. didatbabbangida@gmail.com