Idris Urges Nigerians to Turn Diversity into Strength, Unity into National Asset
Oru Leonard
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has called on Nigerians to embrace the country’s diversity and strengthen national unity, stressing that the nation’s differences should be harnessed as a catalyst for development rather than division.
A press release signed by Rabiu Ibrahim,
Special Assistant (Media) to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation on.
Saturday, August 15, 2026, disclosed that
Idris made the call on Friday, August 14, 2026, while attending the wake-keep of the late Ukandi Placidus Ugar Ogar in Obudu, Cross River State.
The ceremony brought together family members, friends and dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey; former Governor of the state, Senator Prof. Ben Ayade; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Ironbar; and Commissioner for Lands, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang.
The late Ogar, who died at the age of 76, was an elder brother of Senator Ayade and Dr. Frank Ayade.
Speaking at the gathering, Idris said the occasion demonstrated the capacity of Nigerians from diverse ethnic, cultural and social backgrounds to come together in solidarity.
“What I have seen today is the diversity of Nigeria and how it can be further harnessed to promote unity in this country. Nigerians from all walks of life are Nigerians first. Therefore, we must celebrate them wherever they are,” he said.
The Minister described the deceased as a man whose life provided an opportunity to reflect on the values that unite Nigerians, despite their differences.
According to him, while the gathering was primarily a moment of mourning, it was also an occasion to celebrate a life that contributed to bringing people together.
“It is a moment of sorrow that he has passed on, but also a moment of gratitude that he lived a worthy life, one that helped bring people together,” Idris said.
He urged Nigerians to strengthen the bonds of unity and promote shared national values, while making constructive use of the country’s diverse cultures, traditions and identities.
“We must strengthen our unity, uphold our shared values, and also see our diversity as a resource that can contribute meaningfully to the growth of our economy,” he said.
Idris further emphasised that Nigeria’s greatest strength remains its people and their ability to work together despite differences.
He called for greater understanding, tolerance and cooperation among Nigerians, noting that the collective pursuit of the common good remains essential to national progress and sustainable development.
