In a thought-provoking statement shared on his verified Twitter account, Nigerian senator and human rights activist Shehu Sani reflected on the colonial history that shaped Nigeria and other nations around the world.
He noted that Nigeria’s formation under British colonial rule mirrors the experiences of several other countries across Africa, the Americas, and Asia.
Sani emphasized that colonial powers like the British, French, Portuguese, Belgians, and Spanish used similar strategies to unite different ethnic groups and regions under one administration, forming the modern borders of many nations. Citing examples such as the United States and Canada, Sani pointed out that these countries also emerged from the remnants of colonial rule, yet they have learned to embrace their diversity and build stable nations.
According to Sani, the key difference between Nigeria and other formerly colonized nations is the approach to addressing the legacy of colonialism. While many Nigerians and Africans often focus on the struggles imposed by colonial history, other countries have managed to move beyond this narrative, using their challenges as opportunities for growth.
In his statement, Sani urged Nigerians to stop blaming the colonial past and instead focus on building a stronger, more united nation. He highlighted the importance of learning from history without allowing it to become an excuse for inaction, advocating for a future-driven approach that turns Nigeria’s diversity into a strength rather than a weakness.