Former President Goodluck Jonathan says the reason he convened the 2014 National Conference was to produce an environment for Nigerians to address issues sowing the seeds of discord.
‘GEJ’ as Jonathan is fondly called stated this at the “Second Igbo Nsukka Zik Annual Merit Award”, in memory of the first Nigerian President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe. The event was organised by Igbo Nsukka United Front on Tuesday in Abuja.
There, the former Nigerian leader was honoured with “the Zik’s Merit Award”.
According to Jonathan, the inability to manage Nigeria’s diversity was a major stumbling block to the nation’s socio-economic development.
“When I convened the 2014 National Conference as President, my intention was to create an environment that would enable our citizens to dispassionately address those issues that are pushing us towards divisive politics and sowing the seeds of discord in our polity,” Jonathan said.
“I believe that, in a complex and diverse country like ours, the journey of nationhood and march to greatness is not a sprint but a marathon.
“However, to get it right, we need to do much more to unite our people and integrate our society, in order to build a nation of selfless patriots and citizens, citizens as defined by the Greek philosophers.
“That is the type of country envisioned by our nationalists.
“That is the only way to turn our huge population, rich diversity and the outstanding resourcefulness of our people into a positive force that would transform and enhance the greatness of our dear country.
“I have no doubt in my mind that God Almighty has deposited in our land and in our citizens, the indefatigable spirit and creativity to unite, work and relate in a harmonious way and make our country great.”
