By Dr. Joseph Ogundu

Rwanda’s journey from the ashes of civil war to a thriving, unified nation is nothing short of remarkable. When the brutal conflict ended, the country’s leaders made a conscious decision to abandon ethnic identities and embrace national consciousness. They prioritized unity and cohesion, ensuring that ethnic differences took a back seat to the greater goal of building a progressive, harmonious nation.

The United States offers a similar lesson in the aftermath of its civil war. American leaders worked tirelessly to reconcile their divisions, fostering a collective national identity. Over time, this effort helped to create one of the most dynamic and tolerant societies in the world, where diversity is celebrated as a strength.

In stark contrast, Nigeria stands as an unfortunate example of what happens when national unity is neglected. After the civil war, instead of fostering reconciliation and unity, Nigerian leaders opted for sloganism over genuine nation-building. They promoted ethnic and religious jingoism, anchored in systemic discrimination, injustice, and inequity. Policies like the infamous abandoned property program and the indigenization agenda were weaponized to marginalize certain groups and favor others along ethnic lines. These policies entrenched resentment and deepened divisions, setting the stage for a fractured nation.

The post-war leaders’ divisive policies created a society where ethnic and religious identities overshadow national loyalty. Instead of fostering inclusivity, they nurtured a “winner-takes-all” mentality, where survival and supremacy of ethnic groups became the primary focus. Over five decades later, Nigeria remains mired in ethnic distrust, regional hostilities, and religious animosities. The Nigeria-Biafran war ended 54 years ago, yet the country is more divided today than it was in 1967.

In contrast, Rwanda shines as a beacon of hope for the continent. Under the leadership of President Paul Kagame, the country has emerged as an example of what is possible when leaders prioritize unity and fairness. Rwanda’s commitment to inclusivity and collective progress has made it a model for post-conflict recovery and nation-building in Africa.

Nigeria’s leaders could learn a great deal from Rwanda’s example. Building a unified and prosperous nation requires intentional effort, visionary leadership, and policies that prioritize the common good over sectional interests. As we watch Rwanda’s progress with admiration, it is imperative for Nigerians to reflect on our missed opportunities and chart a new course toward genuine national unity.

I salute President Kagame and the resilient people of Rwanda for their commitment to creating a nation that works for all. May they continue to inspire others across Africa in the quest for peace, inclusivity, and progress.