Abuja: The World Sustainable Development Goals Organisation, an international NGO dedicated to supporting the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Goals across member nations, has called on Nigerians to embrace patriotism, peace, and national unity. Mr. Abdussalam Zaura, the newly appointed African Continental Governor of the organisation, made this appeal at a news conference held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Zaura emphasized the urgent need to promote patriotism in Nigeria as the cornerstone of sustainable peace, national unity, and development. He cautioned against anti-patriotic behaviors and other actions that could undermine national security and stability in Nigeria and other African countries. Zaura highlighted that national consciousness and a strong sense of civic responsibility are crucial for building a lasting, peaceful, and progressive society.
Zaura further stated, “There is no country without patriots, and patriotism remains the foundation for sustainable peace and development. We are calling for a National Security and Patriotism Campaign in Nigeria to strengthen unity, deepen national consciousness, and promote enduring patriotic values.” The organisation plans to launch a nationwide security and patriotism campaign aimed at fostering national cohesion and improving citizens’ participation in peacebuilding efforts.
The campaign is set to be implemented across various states, including Kano, Kaduna, Taraba, Zamfara, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Edo, Anambra, Enugu, Rivers, Lagos, Oyo, Adamawa, and Kebbi. This five-month initiative is designed to promote patriotism, educate youths on military sacrifices, and instill discipline, leadership, and civic responsibility among young Nigerians.
Zaura explained that the campaign intends to strengthen civil-military relations, counter misinformation, establish sustainable Patriotism Clubs, and provide scholarships for each participating state. The target audience includes university students, senior secondary school students, youth organizations, and other youth-focused groups critical to instilling enduring patriotic values.
Zaura also noted that the initiative addresses growing concerns about insecurity, misinformation, and declining civic values among youths. He urged Nigerians to embrace discipline, leadership, and patriotic service while promoting institutional respect, national pride, and responsible citizenship across communities.
The campaign aims to provide moral and civic education, address contemporary national challenges, and inspire leadership among younger generations. Zaura called for sustained efforts to enhance youth participation in security initiatives, promote military support, tackle arms proliferation, and curb thuggery nationwide. He emphasized the need to advance intelligence awareness and encourage responsible community reporting to support ongoing national security and peacebuilding initiatives.
Zaura concluded by acknowledging that his appointment as African Continental Governor carries the responsibility of promoting peace, sustainable development, national cohesion, and security consciousness across Africa.