Former military President General Ibrahim Babangida has said that Nigeria is not yet a nation, 61 years after independence.
General Babangida stated this when he hosted group, Team New Nigeria, (TNN), at his Hill-top residence in Minna, Niger State.
He lamented that Nigerians still related in terms of tribes region and religion.
Babangida said: “I think, this is something that, is long overdue. I have continued to engage a lot of my friends, brothers and colleagues about this great country. 61 years after, we still talk in terms of tribes region or religion.
“We are just trying to be a nation, we have not succeeded yet. But, it is a good thing that people like you have come together to say, Enough! We have to do something.
“I think your movement is something that is worthy of emulation and it is something to congratulate you about, for coming together from your various professions, tribes and regions. You are the true Nigerians”.
He however, pledged to mobilize support for Team New Nigeria with a view to accomplishing its aims and objectives of the group.
The former President, who is also the Grand- Patron of the group, had earlier accepted its honorary membership in October 2021
The President of the group, Dr. Modibbo Yakubu Farakwai, appreciated the good gesture of the former President for accepting to be the Grand Patron of Team New Nigeria (TNN).
He pointed out that, Team New Nigerian was deliberately crafted to reflect the aspirations of the founding fathers of Nigeria about what an ideal nation should be. Adding that, “our genuine quest as members to instill patriotism in Nigerians.
He said: “We seek to promote genuine democratic values, equality, diversity and inclusiveness, as well as peaceful coexistence and sustainable community development, by engaging support young people, women and men through education, entrepreneurship skills.
“We have already established administrative structures across the six geographical zones to achieve our aims and objectives”.
He solicited for support and guidance of the people and institutions within the framework of TNN Center for Democracy and Community Development.
Farakwai said this is in conformity with a mission to encourage Nigeria through youths training and advocacy to enhance ethical, moral, social, economic and political pursuit.
The National Publicity Secretary of the group Dr, Shuaib Muhammad, and other members of the National Working Committee of the group were among the entourage.
