Ganduje Advocates for Unity Among Nigeria's Diverse Cultures

Abdullahi Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State, addressed the fifth annual conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, which was chaired by Aminu Bello Masari, the former Governor of Katsina State, with Ifeanyi Okowa, the former Governor of Delta State, as co-chair. Ganduje called on Nigerian leaders to convert the country's ethnic and cultural diversity into an asset rather than a liability, stressing that national unity is a collective responsibility.

He reflected on Nigeria's colonial history, noting that the amalgamation of diverse cultures was driven by colonial economic interests rather than a genuine desire for unity. Ganduje praised the First Republic politicians for fostering nationalism that led to Nigeria's independence from Britain through political pressure rather than armed struggle.

He lamented the shift from nationalism to tribalism in contemporary politics and urged leaders to promote a shared national identity for national development.