The Patriot Charter For Nigerians: A Call To Truth, Service, And Nation-Building -By Leonard Karshima Shilgba

Preamble

Nigeria is a nation blessed with abundant resources, diverse cultures, and resilient people. Yet, decades of corruption, injustice, and disunity have dimmed our collective potential. To rebuild Nigeria, we must commit ourselves to values that restore patriotism, integrity, and sacrificial service. This charter is a call to every Nigerian—young or old, leader or follower, at home or abroad—to embrace the principles that can renew our land.

1. Truth as the Foundation of Nation-Building

We affirm that no nation can rise on falsehood. We pledge to speak truth, seek truth, and act on truth in every sphere of life—whether in governance, business, education, or family life. Truth liberates us from deception and points us toward progress.

Call to Action: Refuse lies, reject fake news, resist propaganda, and live by honesty in dealings.

2. Justice and Equity for All

Nigeria belongs equally to every citizen. Patriotism demands that we reject discrimination, oppression, and inequality. Justice must not depend on status, tribe, or faith. We have this prayer in our National Anthem: “Help us to build a nation where no one is oppressed, and so with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.”

Call to Action: Stand for fairness in your workplace, community, and governance. Demand equal treatment and defend the weak.

3. Service Above Self

Patriotism is service. Every Nigerian is called to contribute, not only to consume. We must work for the common good above personal or sectional interests.

Call to Action: Ask not what Nigeria can give you, but what you can give to Nigeria. Serve in your school, workplace, or community without waiting for applause.

4. The Dignity of Work

We reject the culture of idleness and shortcuts. Every honest work is noble. National renewal comes from productivity in farms, workshops, offices, and classrooms.

Call to Action: Embrace work with pride. Shun corruption, exploitation, and dependency. Refuse to be a burden to others.

5. Accountability and Stewardship

Leadership is a trust, not a possession. Citizens and leaders alike must give account for resources, opportunities, and privileges.

Call to Action: Demand accountability from leaders. Likewise, live responsibly—manage your time, talent, and wealth with integrity.

6. Unity in Diversity

Our diversity is a gift, not a curse. Patriotism calls for celebrating differences while building national unity.

Call to Action: Identify first as Nigerian, but remain proud of your ethnic heritage. Respect all tribes and religions. Never use your diversity as a weapon of division.

7. The Power of Knowledge and Education

Education is not merely about certificates, but about wisdom, innovation, and good citizenship. A thinking nation is a thriving nation and a reading nation is an enlightened nation.

Call to Action: Commit to lifelong learning. Share knowledge generously. Support policies that strengthen education and research.

8. Integrity and Courage in Leadership

We reject silence in the face of wrongdoing. Integrity and courage are the marks of true leadership, whether in public office or private life.

Call to Action: Speak the truth even when it costs. Lead by example in your home, workplace, or community.

9. Community, Compassion, and Shared Responsibility

Patriotism is not only love for the flag but love for people. No Nigerian should prosper while their neighbour suffers needlessly. Don’t ask others, “What have you done for your community?” Instead, direct this question to yourself.

Call to Action: Show compassion. Give where you can. And in giving, uphold the dignity of the receiver; don’t make your giving be an opportunity for photoshop or media publicity. Build communities where every person matters.

10. Faith, Hope, and Moral Renewal

Our rebirth as a nation requires moral transformation. Patriotism must be anchored in faith, hope, and righteousness.

Call to Action: Reject cynicism. Choose hope over despair. Live by godly principles and inspire others toward righteousness.

This is our pledge: To live by truth, serve with integrity, work with dignity, and build a just, united, and prosperous Nigeria. We believe that with courage, faith, and collective commitment, Nigeria shall rise again, a nation where citizens value knowledge, truth, integrity, sacrifice, and service above material wealth, and where reward for service is just and fair.

So help us God.

©SHILGBA