The Nigerian National Pledge is a commitment that every Nigerian, young and old, has heard, recited, and probably learned by heart. Among its powerful promises, the words ”to be faithful, loyal, and honest” stand as pillars of integrity, values meant to guide not just ordinary citizens but especially those in positions of leadership. Sadly, it seems that these values have been set aside by many of our leaders, who are often more focused on personal gain than on the well-being of the nation

To be ”faithful, loyal, and honest” is not just a set of words; it’s a pledge to prioritize the country’s interests above personal ambition. A true leader is faithful to the promises they make to their people, ensuring that every decision is driven by a commitment to serve. Unfortunately, many in positions of power in Nigeria seem to have abandoned this core principle. From mismanagement of public funds to policies that favor the elite at the expense of the masses, leaders are increasingly seen as more interested in personal success than in Nigeria’s unity and development.

When leaders are loyal to their own gains instead of the people who put them in office, our communities suffer.

Loyalty, as expressed in the pledge, should mean loyalty to the people and the progress of Nigeria. However, what we see today is loyalty to political interests and self-serving agendas. When leaders are loyal to their own gains instead of the people who put them in office, our communities suffer. Critical issues like healthcare, education, and infrastructure remain in poor condition, while the priorities of those in charge remain disconnected from the realities facing the average Nigerian.

Honesty, the final part of this trio, is the foundation of trust in leadership. Without honesty, the social contract between the government and the people crumbles. Sadly, transparency in governance has become rare, replaced by scandals, cover-ups, and empty promises. If our leaders truly embodied honesty, they would address corruption within their ranks and hold each other accountable, setting a standard for every Nigerian to follow.

Sadly, transparency in governance has become rare, replaced by scandals, cover-ups, and empty promises

The pledge isn’t just a formality; it’s a promise to ourselves and to future generations. The moment we recognize that leadership is not just a privilege but a responsibility, we’ll begin to see the changes we desperately need. Nigeria’s leaders must reconnect with the essence of this pledge and remember that it is more than words; it’s an oath taken for the sake of Nigeria’s unity, growth, and integrity. If upheld, this pledge could steer us back on a path where every Nigerian feels valued, and where our country truly thrives.

At a time when so much is at stake, it’s crucial for Nigerian leaders to return to the values of the National Pledge. It’s a call for leadership that serves the people and prioritizes the country’s future. In doing so, they could turn these words from a forgotten recitation into a living testament to what Nigeria could be.

Nigeria’s leaders must reconnect with the essence of this pledge and remember that it is more than words; it’s an oath taken for the sake of Nigeria’s unity, growth, and integrity. If upheld