Nigeria’s Diversity Should Be Treasured Not Managed – Gov. Alia

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia on Thursday, May 30, 2024, declared that Nigeria’s diversity should be treasured and cherished and not to be managed.
Governor Alia, who stated this at the Arewa House in Kaduna while addressing Arewa Think Tank at a One-Day Lecture in commemoration of the one year achievements of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration, noted that diversity in Nigeria is often viewed through the prism of division, source of tension and conflict.
Speaking on the theme, “Our Diversity, Our Strength”, Alia said that it was essential to recognise that diversity is a double-edged sword, if embraced properly, can become our greatest asset.

In the words of Alia; “The key lies in understanding and harnessing our differences to build a more robust, united and prosperous Nigeria”.
The Governor explained that President Tinubu’s economic policies are hinged on Nigeria’s diversity, saying the administration has launched numerous initiatives to support local businesses and artisans from different cultural backgrounds.

He said that by promoting local industries and traditional crafts, the government has not only boosted the economy, but also preserved Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
Alia pointed out that the new National Anthem, which was recently signed into law, has said it all in its first stanza, lines 3 and 4 where it states that “…Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood, we stand,…”, stressing that diversity fuels innovation.
Governor Alia further said; “When people from varied backgrounds come together, they bring different perspectives, experiences and ideas. This confluence of thought drives creativity and problem-solving, which are critical for economic growth.

“Nigeria’s diverse population should be a powerhouse for entrepreneurship and innovation, fostering industries that are as varied as our people.

“Let us not take Nigeria’s diversity for granted as it offers immense opportunities for growth and unity. The richness of Nigeria’s ethnic, linguistic, religious and cultural diversity when harnessed effectively can lead to unparalleled growth and unity, showcasing Nigeria as a beacon of diversity and strength on the global stage.

“Our diversity should be our power, and our strength, should be in our unity. When we recognise, appreciate and accept this fact, then there would be no them and us,” he said.
A statement by Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State, said that Governor Alia urged Nigerians to continue to celebrate the richness of the country’s diversity, saying Nigeria as a Nation with more than 250 ethnic groups, with different dialects, religions and cultures, showed the country’s identity and potential.