A prominent civic organization has issued a powerful New Year appeal to Nigerians, marking the start of 2026 as a pivotal moment for sober reflection and renewed determination. The group's message, released on 1 January 2026 at 4:24pm WAT, calls for a collective national effort built on unity, integrity, and a genuine commitment to rebuilding the country.
A Call for a Genuine Democratic Commitment
The group emphasized that the New Year must symbolize more than just a calendar change; it should represent a true new beginning for the nation. They urged both citizens and those in power to move beyond viewing democracy as merely an electoral event. Instead, they advocated for it to be a daily practice centered on justice, accountability, and the rule of law.
Their statement clearly articulated this vision: "May this be the year we take our democracy seriously, not just as a ritual of elections, but as a daily commitment to unity, justice, accountability, compassion, and the rule of law." The group believes this period should ignite a national rebirth, where Nigerians courageously address the country's challenges and forge a consensus based on fairness and shared sacrifice.
Demanding Transparency and Responsible Leadership
A significant portion of the message was directed at Nigeria's political class and public office holders. The civic body stressed that leadership depends fundamentally on public trust, which can only be earned through unwavering honesty. They called for a return to truth-telling in all aspects of governance, from policy intentions to personal disclosures.
"We call on those in positions of authority to rediscover the sacred duty of truth-telling—about their backgrounds, intentions, policies, actions, and even their health," the statement read. It further defined public office as a solemn call to service, not a means for personal gain. The group insisted that managing public resources requires utmost transparency and a deep sense of duty to both present and future generations.
Prioritizing Compassion and Measuring Progress by Citizen Welfare
The appeal also highlighted the need for compassion and sacrifice, urging that national planning should consciously prioritize the needs of the poor, weak, and marginalized. The group proposed a radical shift in how national progress is measured, arguing it should be based on the quality of life of ordinary citizens rather than displays of opulence.
"A nation is not defined by the grandeur of its celebrations but by the dignity of life it offers its citizens," they declared. The statement made a poignant comparison, advocating for investment in essential services over extravagance: "Let us prioritise a better standard of living over elaborate funerals; let us invest more in hospitals than in hearses, more in schools than in slogans, and more in jobs and productivity than in extravagance and waste."
In conclusion, the group expressed hope for a renewed collective resolve in 2026 to build an inclusive and functional Nigeria. Their final rallying cry was one of optimism and determination: "Above all, may this year renew our collective resolve to create a Nigeria that truly works for all—just in its laws, productive in its economy, united in its diversity, and humane in its treatment of every citizen. A new Nigeria is possible."
