NGIJ to Nigerians: Embrace Sacrifice, Patriotism, and Collective Action for National Growth

 

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has extended warm greetings to Muslims and all Nigerians on the joyous occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir, urging citizens to use the spiritual significance of the season to pray fervently for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and prosperity.

In a statement jointly signed by the National President, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, and the National Secretary, Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa, NGIJ emphasized that Eid-el-Kabir is a reminder of sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith in God—values urgently needed in Nigeria’s current socio-political and economic reality.

“Eid-el-Kabir presents yet another opportunity for sober reflection and a recommitment to national values. We urge Nigerians to seize the sacredness of the season to pray for our dear country, its leaders, and its people. Only through unity, selflessness, and collective responsibility can we overcome our challenges and build the Nigeria of our dreams,” the statement read.

The Guild noted with concern the persistent challenges plaguing the country, including insecurity, unemployment, corruption, economic instability, infrastructural decay, poor governance, and youth restiveness. These issues, the Guild stated, continue to undermine Nigeria’s growth and the welfare of its people.

“The widening gap between government and citizens, coupled with declining public trust in institutions, calls for urgent and decisive action from all stakeholders,” NGIJ noted.

To address these challenges, the NGIJ called for inclusive governance, justice, and equitable distribution of resources. The Guild stressed the importance of good leadership, transparency, and a renewed commitment to the rule of law.

“We believe that inclusive governance that respects diversity and actively engages all regions, genders, and age groups is key to a more stable and prosperous Nigeria. The time has come to move from rhetoric to actionable, people-focused policies that reflect the real needs of Nigerians.”

The Guild also advised the government at all levels to prioritize job creation, support innovation and entrepreneurship, and invest in human capital development to reduce poverty and enhance national productivity.

In its message, NGIJ charged Nigerian youths to rise above apathy, idleness, and destructive tendencies. It encouraged them to be productive, patriotic, and proactive contributors to nation-building.

“Young Nigerians must shun crime and political manipulation. Instead, they should embrace education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement. The future belongs to them, and they must be ready to shape it with discipline and vision,” the Guild advised.

The Guild offered special prayers for the President, state governors, lawmakers, religious and traditional leaders, and every Nigerian, asking God to grant them wisdom, courage, and compassion in their service to the nation.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, we pray for peace in every troubled region, healing for the sick, comfort for the bereaved, and divine guidance for all leaders and the led. May Allah bless Nigeria abundantly and guide us on the path of righteousness, unity, and shared prosperity,” the statement concluded.

Signed:

Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan

National President, NGIJ

Mr. Rowland Olonishuwa

National Secretary, NGIJ