A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress and former national chairmanship aspirant, Chief Ibrahim Bamidele Emokpaire, has appealed to Nigerians to begin the New Year with a renewed commitment to peace, tolerance, and national cohesion. In a message marking the start of 2026, Emokpaire called for calm, self-reflection, and collective responsibility, stressing that Nigeria’s progress depends not only on government policies but also on the daily choices and attitudes of its citizens.

Call for unity and reflection

Chief Emokpaire, who contested the APC national chairmanship position in 2018, said Nigerians should take time to reflect on the country’s journey, shaped by unity, shared sacrifice, tolerance, and resilience. He reminded citizens that despite deep political, ethnic, and religious differences, Nigeria’s strength has always rested on its ability to endure difficult moments and rebuild together.

According to Emokpaire, recent years have tested the nation’s social fabric, making it more important than ever for citizens to embrace peaceful coexistence. He urged Nigerians to look inward, assess the challenges the country has faced, and commit to actions that promote harmony and national stability.

He also encouraged a period of national retrospection, noting that the country’s development has been influenced by both painful experiences and collective resilience. According to him, understanding this history is essential for shaping a more stable future.

Recalling national challenges

The APC chieftain referenced several defining events in Nigeria’s recent history, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the EndSARS protests, and persistent security challenges linked to religious extremism in parts of the country. He said these experiences exposed deep social and economic vulnerabilities but also revealed the courage and perseverance of ordinary Nigerians.

According to Emokpaire, the pandemic tested the country’s healthcare system and economy, while the EndSARS protests reflected the frustrations of young Nigerians demanding accountability and reform. He added that the activities of religious extremists, which have devastated communities and displaced families, remain a painful reminder of the need for unity and collective security efforts.

Despite these challenges, he said Nigeria has continued to move forward, largely due to the resilience of its people and their willingness to adapt in times of crisis.

Support for Tinubu’s leadership and reforms

Emokpaire commended the leadership of the APC under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, praising what he described as the President’s resilience, focus, and determination to uphold democratic values despite ongoing national difficulties.

According to him, the current administration has continued to pursue reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and strengthening governance structures. He urged Nigerians to support these efforts and engage constructively with government policies designed to restore socio-economic balance across the country.

He said meaningful reform requires patience and cooperation between government and citizens, adding that public trust and civic responsibility are critical to the success of any national development agenda.

Message of tolerance and shared identity

In a statement attributed to him, Emokpaire emphasised that Nigeria’s peace is built on everyday actions and attitudes.

“Nigeria has bled from multiple stabs, and yet ventured this far without fainting. Let us also unwrap a deeper truth, that our nation’s peace depends on the daily choices we make, the tolerance we practice, and the kindness we extend to one another regardless of religious, political party affiliations, tribes, or geopolitical differences. We are first Nigerians by birth,” he said.

Political observers note that such messaging reflects growing concern within political circles about rising social tensions, particularly as economic pressures and political competition continue to influence public discourse.

Why the message matters now

Analysts say Emokpaire’s appeal comes at a critical time, as Nigeria enters 2026 facing economic recovery challenges, ongoing security concerns, and rising expectations from citizens. The New Year, they note, provides an opportunity for leaders and communities to reset priorities and rebuild trust.

According to political analyst Musa Lawal, public calls for unity from senior party figures help shape national narratives and influence grassroots engagement. Lawal said messages that emphasise tolerance and civic responsibility can contribute to de-escalating political tensions and encouraging constructive participation in governance.

“These statements matter because they go beyond party politics. They speak to social stability, which is essential for economic growth and democratic consolidation,” Lawal said.

Call for collective responsibility

Emokpaire urged Nigerians to work together to restore socio-economic balance and promote national development. He called on citizens to support government initiatives while also holding leaders accountable through lawful and peaceful means.

According to him, 2026 offers a fresh opportunity for growth if Nigerians remain united and focused on rebuilding. He stressed that progress will depend on cooperation between political leaders, community stakeholders, civil society groups, and ordinary citizens.

“This is the time to reflect on our shared history and recommit to the values of justice, peace, tolerance, and development,” he said, adding that political and community leaders must lead by example by prioritising service over personal interest.

Role of leadership and civic values

As a former chairman and convener of the Progressives Solidarity for Asiwaju and a past Secretary and Chairman of the APC United Kingdom Chapter, Emokpaire has remained an influential voice within party circles and national affairs. Observers say his message reflects a broader effort by party leaders to promote stability and unity as the country navigates reform and recovery.

Civic development experts argue that leadership messaging plays a critical role in shaping public attitudes. According to governance researcher Aisha Mohammed, consistent emphasis on peace and tolerance from political leaders can strengthen social cohesion.

“When leaders speak responsibly and promote inclusion, it helps build trust and reduces the risk of conflict. It also encourages citizens to see themselves as partners in national development rather than passive observers,” Mohammed said.

Chief Ibrahim Bamidele Emokpaire’s New Year message reinforces a familiar but timely theme in Nigeria’s national discourse: unity as the foundation for progress. By urging Nigerians to embrace peace, tolerance, and collective responsibility, he places the burden of national renewal not only on political leaders but also on citizens themselves. As 2026 unfolds, the extent to which Nigerians translate these values into daily actions may prove just as important as any policy reform in shaping the country’s future.