By Amarachi Jim-Nwoko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Nigeria Union of Journalists has launched Culture Nigeria, a landmark publication produced with O&i Contact Limited, calling for indigenous values to drive national unity, security and development amid Nigeria’s current challenges.
The book was formally presented at a ceremony organised by the NUJ National Secretariat in Abuja, attended by media professionals, cultural advocates, policymakers and other dignitaries.
NUJ President Comrade Alhassan Yahya, represented by National Secretary Achike G. Chude, described the publication as a timely intervention in Nigeria’s nation-building efforts. He said Culture Nigeria is more than a literary work, it is a strategic contribution to national discourse as the country faces economic, social and security challenges.
Yahya stressed that Nigeria’s cultural heritage should not be seen as a relic of the past but as the foundation for a more united, peaceful and prosperous nation. He argued that the country’s over 250 ethnic groups should be a source of strength for economic growth, social cohesion and national integration, not division.
He criticised the “politicisation of culture,” saying political actors have often exploited ethnic and cultural differences for electoral gain, weakening citizens’ trust in national institutions. Instead, he called for the “culturisation of politics” governance anchored in indigenous values such as integrity, accountability, honour, mutual trust and communal responsibility.
On security, Yahya said military operations alone cannot address the root causes of insecurity. He described culture as an underutilised peacebuilding asset, noting that traditional rulers and indigenous institutions historically maintained order long before modern policing. Strengthening these structures, he said, would boost community intelligence, improve early-warning systems and help curb insecurity.
He warned that when young people lose touch with cultural values of discipline, respect for life, hard work and communal living, they become more vulnerable to crime and violent extremism.
Yahya added that meaningful development must reflect the values, traditions and aspirations of Nigerians. He pointed to Nollywood, Afrobeats, fashion and literature as key non-oil sectors with strong potential to create jobs, attract investment and advance cultural diplomacy.
By publishing Culture Nigeria, he said, the NUJ is reaffirming the media’s role in preserving and documenting the nation’s cultural identity for future generations. He described the book as a rich compendium showcasing the beauty and diversity of Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, and a reminder that present challenges do not define the country’s future.
Author Isaac Osaikhiwu called the book a “monumental documentation” of Nigeria’s cultural landscape. He said it explores the link between culture, governance and development at a time when societal values are in decline, and expressed hope that it would inspire pride in Nigeria’s heritage and promote peace, responsible leadership and sustainable development.
Other dignitaries at the event urged Nigerians to be ambassadors of the country’s positive image. Despite ongoing challenges, they said, Nigeria remains blessed with remarkable cultural diversity, resilient people and enormous opportunities. They called on citizens to celebrate the nation’s achievements, preserve its heritage and work collectively for a stronger, united and prosperous country.
