A Nigerian diaspora group, The International Watchers, has called on the Federal Government to institute national honours and special recognition frameworks for citizens who make significant personal sacrifices in the interest of national unity and humanitarian service.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Dr. Olusegun Adebola, the group said Nigeria must begin to deliberately reward selflessness if it hopes to inspire a new wave of patriotism, particularly among Nigerians in the diaspora.
The group cited the example of Allen Onyenma, noting that his journey into humanitarian service began long before his rise in business. According to the statement, his early commitment to national cohesion through the Foundation for Ethnic Harmony in Nigeria reflects a mindset that prioritises unity and service over personal gain.
Dr. Adebola stressed that individuals who sacrifice their comfort, resources, and time for the good of the country deserve more than verbal commendation, insisting that structured national honours and recognitions would send a strong message about the values Nigeria chooses to uphold.
He argued that recognising such efforts at the highest level would not only validate those already contributing but also encourage others, especially Nigerians living abroad, to invest their energy and resources in nation-building.
The statement noted that many Nigerians in the diaspora possess the capacity and willingness to contribute meaningfully to national development but often lack the motivation that comes from visible appreciation and institutional support.
According to Dr Adebola, it is not enough to celebrate wealth; Nigeria must celebrate sacrifice. He added that honouring individuals who prioritise the collective good would help reshape societal values and inspire a culture of responsibility.
The group also urged the government to complement such recognition with practical incentives, including policies that protect and support local businesses driven by social impact.
Dr. Adebola warned that continued neglect or frustration of well-intentioned individuals and organisations could discourage others from taking similar paths, ultimately undermining national development efforts.
The International Watchers maintained that a nation that rewards service and sacrifice is more likely to attract the commitment of its citizens at home and abroad, stressing that national honours should be strategically used as a tool to mobilise goodwill, patriotism, and diaspora engagement.
