17/08/2025
*Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, holds her 133rd Inaugural Lecture, in the Inaugural Lecture series of the University.*
The 133rd Inaugural Lecture of the University, was delivered by Prof. Babatunde Olusegun Agara, B.A,(Ife), MPA, (Ife), M.Sc, (Benin), Ph.D,(Benin), a Professor of Comparative Politics & Strategic Studies, Department of Political Science,, Faculty of Social Sciences. The 133rd Inaugural Lecture, was delivered on Thursday 14th August, 2025 @ the Rev. Chris Oyakhilome Auditorium, AAUE.
Prof. Agara, has published extensively in both local and international journals, conference proceedings and many widely referenced books of readings. He has a total of One hundred and fifty eight (158) publications to his credit. He has attended and presented papers in seventy-one (71) local and international conferences. As at Thursday, 14th August, 2025, *he has successfully supervised and mentored thirty-six (36) doctoral students* , each having defended their theses. His areas of specialization, which is reflected in his academic and research focus includes: Comparative Politics, Methodology, Political Economy, Federalism, Military, Conflicts, Strategic Studies, Terrorism and Ethnicity.
Prof. Agara, while dissecting his chosen topic, " *The Nigerian State: A Country without Countrymen"* informed his audience that,
Nigeria, often described as the "Giant of Africa," is a nation endowed with abundant human and natural resources. However, despite its potential, the country grapples with deep-seated challenges that have hindered national unity and development. One of the most pressing issues is the lack of a cohesive national identity, leading to the assertion that Nigeria is "a country without countrymen." This phrase captures the reality that while Nigeria exists as a geopolitical entity, its citizens often prioritize ethnic, religious, and regional loyalties over a shared national identity.
From the standpoint of historical perspective, he stated that Nigeria's colonial history laid the foundation for its fragmented identity. The British amalgamated diverse ethnic groupsβHausa-Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, and over 250 othersβinto a single entity in 1914 for administrative convenience, without fostering a sense of unity. Post-independence, ethnic rivalries, political marginalization, and religious divisions intensified, leading to a civil war (1967β1970) and persistent conflicts.
Factors Contributing to the Lack of National Cohesion according to the Lecturer includes the following:
1 *.. Ethnic and Religious Divisions*
Nigeriaβs major ethnic groups often view each other with suspicion, competing for political power and economic resources. Religious differences (between Muslims and Christians) further exacerbate tensions, leading to violent clashes and systemic distrust.
*2.. Political Elite Manipulation*
Political leaders frequently exploit ethnic and religious sentiments to maintain power, using divisive rhetoric and patronage systems that prioritize loyalty over merit. This has eroded trust in governance and deepened sectional divisions.
*3.. Economic Inequality and Resource Control*
The concentration of wealth and power in a few regions (particularly the Niger Delta and the North-South divide) has fueled resentment. The struggle for resource control, especially oil revenues, has led to militancy, corruption, and a lack of equitable development.
*4.. Weak National Institutions*
Institutions like the judiciary, police, and electoral bodies are often perceived as biased or ineffective, reinforcing the belief that the system does not work for all Nigerians. Corruption and lack of accountability further diminish citizens' faith in the state.
5 *.. Rise of Sub-national Loyalties*
Many Nigerians identify more with their ethnic group or state than with the nation. Movements like IPOB (Igbo secessionists), Oduduwa Republic agitators (Yoruba nationalists), and militant groups in the Niger Delta reflect this trend.
Consequences of a Disunited Nigeria
Underdevelopment: Lack of unity hampers collective progress, as resources are wasted on conflicts rather than nation-building.
Brain Drain: Many skilled Nigerians emigrate due to frustration with systemic failures.
Insecurity: Boko Haram, banditry, and communal clashes thrive in an environment of weak national solidarity.
Poor Governance: Leaders are not held accountable because citizens are divided along ethnic lines rather than demanding good governance.
Possible Solutions
National Reorientation: Promoting civic education and patriotism through media, schools, and national programs.
True Federalism: Restructuring to ensure equitable resource distribution and regional autonomy.
Strong Institutions: Strengthening democratic institutions to ensure fairness and justice for all citizens.
Inclusive Leadership: Leaders must prioritize national unity over ethnic or religious interests.
Youth Engagement: Empowering the youth to bridge ethnic divides through entrepreneurship, education, and technology.
He concluded his lecture with these words;
Nigeria remains a nation struggling with the absence of a unifying identity. For it to truly become a country with "countrymen," deliberate efforts must be made to foster national cohesion, equitable development, and a shared vision. Without this, the country will continue to exist as a mere geographical expression rather than a united and prosperous nation.
Takaway from the Lecture:
As the late Nigerian literary icon Chinua Achebe once observed, "Nigeria is not a nation. It is a mere geographical of expression." Until Nigerians see themselves first as citizens of one nation rather than as members of competing ethnic or religious groups, the dream of a truly united and progressive Nigeria will remain elusive
Earlier, the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sunday Olowo Samuel, while declaring the 133rd Inaugural Lecture opened, informed the audience, that the 133rd Inaugural Lecture, was the 28th in the Bi-monthly Inaugural Lecture Series of the University, the 15th from the Faculty of Social Sciences and 3rd from the Department of Political Science. He stated that, Inaugural Lectures are cherished traditions in academia, providing a platform for professors to share their research and contributions to knowledge.
According to the Acting Vice Chancellor, the topic underscores the complexities and challenges facing our nation, Nigeria and invites the audience to reflect on the state of our nation-building efforts. He added that the lecture offers an opportunity for critical examination and discussion of the issues affecting our country's development .
The Acting Vice Chancellor, who was ably represented by the Director, Academic Planning Unit of the Vice Chancellor's Office, Prof. (Mrs) E.O. Omoregie, informed the audience that AAUE emerged as the winner of the prestigious Niger Delta Award for the Most Peaceful Educational Institution in Nigeria while the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. S.O.Samule, was honoured with the prestigious Niger Delta Peace Ambassador Award for his leadership, commitment to peace, excellence and growth by the Edo Legacy Foundation Inc (A United Nations NGO). According to her, these awards would not have been possible without the unwavering support from His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Executive Governor of Edo State, the Governing Council ably led by the Pro-Chancellor & Chairman of Council, High Chief Dan Orbih and our valuable staff and students. She concluded by reiterating the Acting Vice Chancellor's commitment towards the welfare of staff and students and sued for their unalloyed support and cooperation to maintain and sustain the peace and industrial harmony the University currently enjoys for the common good of all..
The 133rd Inaugural Lecture, had the following personalities in attendance:
1.. The Acting Vice Chancellor, ably represented by the Director Academic Planning Unit, Prof (Mrs) E.O Omoregie, the Acting Registrar ably represented by the DR(Personnel Services Divison) Mrs. O. O. Agbebaku, the Acting Provost, College of Medicine, Prof. B. O. Idonije..
2.. Deans of Faculties, Directors of Directorates, Heads of departments/Divisions/Units, Deputy Registrars, Non Academic Directors,
3.. Former Deputy Vice Chancellors,(Administration), Prof. P.O.Oviasuyi & Prof. T. Agweda
4.. The Dean, College of Arts & Science, Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof. Blessing Oligbi
5.. The Head Department of Political Science, Igbinedion University , Okada, Dr. Adekunle
6.. The President of the Nigerian Political Science Association, Prof. Ibrahim Saliu, from University of Ilorin
7.. SA(Media) to the Director General, National Institute of Legislative & Democratic Studies, Abuja. Mohammad Abdukadri.
8.. SSANU Chairman, AAU Branch, Comr. Emma Omokhafe
9.. The Chairman, AAU Alumni HB, Prof.A. Aghemelo
10.. Family members of the Inaugural Lecturer as well as his friends and well wishers.
The highpoint of the well attended ceremony, was the presentation of gifts and a group photograph, showcasing the successful end of the 133rd Inaugural lecture series of the University..
Dcn. Comr..L
I. Isiraojie, Assistant Registrar/Head, Protocol Unit of the University, reporting from AAUE
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