Why Humanism is Needed in My Country, Nigeria

by Saliu Olumide Saheed

Nigeria is a country of immense beauty, diversity, and potential. Known as the "Giant of Africa," it is home to over 250 ethnic groups, countless languages, and vibrant cultures. With its vast natural resources and young, dynamic population, Nigeria could be a leader on the global stage. Yet, the reality for most Nigerians is far from this ideal. The country struggles with corruption, inequality, ethnic and religious divisions, and poor governance challenges that have made life difficult for millions. While solutions often seem elusive, one philosophy offers a clear path forward: humanism.

Humanism, at its core, is about placing human well-being and dignity at the center of our values. It emphasizes reason, compassion, and fairness, rather than dogma or discrimination. In a country as complex as Nigeria, these principles can serve as a guide to address our most pressing issues and unlock the potential of every citizen.

Fighting Inequality and Promoting Justice

One of Nigeria’s biggest challenges is inequality, which defines many aspects of life. From education to employment opportunities, a person’s tribe, gender, or background often determines their prospects. Ethnic and regional divisions have created a sense of "us versus them," with some groups enjoying privileges while others are marginalized. Women, despite their significant contributions to families and communities, face systemic barriers in education, politics, and the workforce.

Humanism offers a remedy by insisting that every person has intrinsic value, regardless of their identity or status. It promotes fairness and equal opportunity, pushing for policies that uplift everyone, especially those left behind. For Nigeria, embracing humanism means creating a society where no one is excluded based on where they come from or who they are. It is about building a country where every Nigerian can thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Tackling Corruption with Accountability

Corruption resonates deeply in Nigeria, and for good reason, it is one of the most significant obstacles to progress. Corruption has seeped into every level of society from inflated government contracts to bribes for basic services. It has eroded trust in public institutions and left many Nigerians disillusioned with leadership.

Humanism emphasizes integrity and accountability. It calls on leaders to prioritize the common good over personal gain and encourages citizens to hold their government to higher ethical standards. If Nigerians embrace humanist values, we can begin to create a culture where honesty and transparency are celebrated, not undermined. Leaders must lead by example, and the people must demand better. Humanism empowers citizens to reject corruption and insist on governance that benefits everyone, not just a select few.

Bridging Religious and Ethnic Divides

Nigeria’s diversity is one of its greatest strengths, yet it has often been a source of division. Religious and ethnic tensions have fueled violence, destroyed communities, and deepened mistrust between different groups. Whether it is clashes between Christians and Muslims or disagreements between ethnic groups, these conflicts have left scars on the nation’s history.

Humanism offers a way to move beyond these divisions. It teaches us to focus on our shared humanity rather than the differences that separate us. By promoting mutual respect and understanding, humanism can help Nigerians build bridges across divides. Imagine a country where people of different religions and ethnicities work together to solve common problems, guided by the belief that what unites us is stronger than what divides us.

Education as a Catalyst for Change

Education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming society, but Nigeria’s education system is struggling. Many schools are underfunded, teachers are underpaid, and students often lack the resources they need to succeed. Even when education is accessible, it sometimes emphasizes rote learning rather than critical thinking or creativity.

Humanism places a high value on education not just as a way to gain employment but as a means of personal growth and societal progress. A humanist approach to education would prioritize teaching children to think critically, solve problems, and question the status quo. This kind of education could produce a generation of Nigerians ready to tackle the country’s toughest challenges, from climate change to unemployment. It would also empower young people to dream big and innovate, unlocking the potential that lies within Nigeria’s vibrant youth.

A Vision for Nigeria’s Future

At its heart, humanism is about building a better world by putting people first. For Nigeria, this means creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity, leaders act with integrity, and citizens work together to solve problems. It means rejecting divisions and focusing on the values we all share: compassion, fairness, and the belief that every life matters.

Nigeria is a nation with incredible potential. Its rich cultures, brilliant minds, and resilient people have the power to transform not just the country but the entire continent. But to achieve this, we must embrace a new way of thinking one that prioritizes humanity over hatred, reason over division, and unity over conflict.

Humanism isn’t just a philosophy; it’s a lifeline for a country like Nigeria. It offers a vision of a future where everyone can thrive, where problems are solved with rationality and compassion, and where we all work together to create the Nigeria we dream of. By embracing humanism, we can turn our challenges into opportunities and build a country that truly reflects the greatness we aspire to.