Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has said Nigeria can overcome deep-rooted ethnic and religious prejudices, describing unity as essential to building a stable and inclusive nation.
Speaking on Monday at the maiden Policy Making and Good Governance Lecture Series organised by National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru near Jos, Osinbajo stressed that no citizen should face discrimination based on tribe or religion.
Delivering a lecture titled “Creating a homeland for all: Nation-building in a diverse democracy,” the vice-president warned against the growing trend of exploiting ethnic and religious divisions for political gain.
He argued that while democratic competition often reflects social and cultural differences, such divisions must not be weaponised to undermine national cohesion.
According to him, Nigeria’s Constitution clearly prioritises social integration, guaranteeing citizens the freedom to live and move freely across the country without fear or discrimination.
“Social integration is one of the highest ideals of Nigeria’s Constitution,” he said, noting that it affirms the rights of all Nigerians regardless of identity.
Osinbajo added that fostering unity and inclusiveness remains critical to strengthening democracy and ensuring long-term national stability.
