The Collapse of Nigerian Ethics and Values — Anyaoku
Chief Emeka Anyaoku, a former secretary general of the Commonwealth, claimed over the weekend that morals and ethics had mostly disappeared from Nigerian culture.
In spite of this, he noted, certain Nigerian have made a name for themselves and are now considered role models in respective industries. The elder statesman gave a speech in Lagos at the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation’s 27th anniversary celebration and the Great Nigerian Awards, 2024, which were presented by Dr. Christopher Kolade, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, to recognize 12 outstanding Nigerians.
Among the recipients were Prof. Mohammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare; Prof. Umar Pate, a renowned mass communication expert; Prof. Rukayyatu Ahmed Rufai, a former Minister of Education; Emeritus Professor Akinjide Osuntokun; and Prof. Adesola Ogunniyi.
Barr. Geoffrey Onyeama, the former minister of foreign affairs; Barr. Odein Ajumogobia, the former minister of petroleum; Bashorun Jaiye Kofolaran Randle, the renowned accountant; Prof.
Baba Yusuf Abubakar; Barr. Louis Nnamdi Mbanefo; Prof. Adesola Ogunniyi; Prof. Christian T. Happi; and Prof. Jibrila Dahiru Amin are among the others.
The award ceremony’s chair, Anyaoku, stated that the acknowledgment is important in a Nigerian culture where morals and values have mostly crumbled. He said that in those days in Nigeria, people believed that hard effort and honesty were the only paths to achievement for someone like him.
At that time, he stated, the most valuable quality in a human being was excellent character. But he condemned the moral decay in Nigeria today, saying that “everything is lost, character is lost.” Anyaoku praised the recipients, calling them “Indisputably deserving individuals.”
Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, the foundation’s executive secretary, conveyed Dr. Christopher Kolade’s message. She stated that although Nigeria faces socio-political and economic difficulties, it has its share of notable individuals who have left their marks and imprints on history, just like any other nation. In addition to the recipients of the awards, a number of dignitaries and notable figures observed the ceremony.
Among them were Dr. Tony Iredia, Dr. John Momoh, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, Prof. Itse Sagay, Mr. Femi Falana, Justice Isa Ayo Salami, and Izioma Phillip Asiodu.
