The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), also known as the Pyrates Confraternity and civil society organisations have stressed the need for national reconciliation and unity amongst Nigerians.
The call was made at the Annual Feast of Barracuda/ Public Lecture organized by NAS (Sahara Deck), Abuja City Centre, in collaboration with the National Orientation Agency (NOA), with the theme “National Reconciliation And Unity: The Imperative For Collective Action” held in Abuja on Monday.
At the event Director General, National Orientation Agency (NOA), Dr Garba Abari, represented by Mr Patrick Chidi, Chief Programmes Officer, NOA said, “Today, we stand at a pivotal moment in history where we must collectively rise above our differences, be they regional, cultural, or political, and work hand in hand to build a stronger, more cohesive Nigeria.
”These challenges have highlighted the urgency of embracing reconciliation and understanding as the bedrock of our coexistence.
“The Feast of Barracuda offers a unique opportunity for diverse minds to come together, engage in meaningful dialogue, and seek common ground.” Abari stated.
Also speaking at the event Executive Director Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo noted that national reconciliation is Imperative and issues of inequality and injustice must be addressed to give various interest groups a sense of belonging.
“There are deeply entrenched inequalities that exist in Nigeria, some states have higher representation than others in the National assembly and this must be addressed in order to give various interest groups a sense of belonging.
“When we talk about national reconciliation, there are certain fundamental principles that must guide the conversation, it must foster justice, trust, mutual respect and equality.”
Earlier, in his welcome address Mr Olamide Oni, Capoon, National Association of Seadogs (Sahara Deck), Abuja City Centre said the theme, “National Reconciliation and Unity” was carefully chosen to instigate discussions that will lead to attitudinal change amongst Nigerians.
“Our objective today transcends mere acknowledgement, for we endeavour to chart tangible solutions that will guide us towards a future characterized by unity, empathy, and shared prosperity.
“This is an endeavour that demands collective participation from each individual, irrespective of background or affiliation.
“We must engage in constructive dialogues, foster tolerance and cultivate a national identity that transcends the confines of our ethnicities.”
On his part, Henry Micheal – Ihunde, First Mate Sahara Deck (Abuja City Centre), said the Feast of Barracuda is an annual event of the Pyrates Confraternity that provides an opportunity to engage with families, non-members, and the public in addressing pressing national issues.
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