The Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO), Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, has emphasised the importance of cultural values and patriotism in Nigeria, stressing the need for a balanced approach to social media usage.

He points to countries like China, which have successfully fostered development by implementing measures to manage social media content effectively.

Ajiboye argues that true progress extends beyond technological advancements and requires a collective effort in human and behavioural management.

He believes that by intentionally revisiting and embracing traditional cultural values, Nigerians can enhance ethical practices that not only diminish crime rates but also promote a more positive national identity.

During a recent interview on the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA), Ajiboye noted that Nigeria’s rich diversity, stemming from its over 250 ethnic groups, presents both unique strengths and challenges.
He stressed that effectively managing this cultural diversity is crucial for the nation’s development and progress.

He remarked, “A nation without concerted efforts at moderating or determining the expected behaviour of its citizens is a nation in chaos. We should be worried that, before now, our cultural values, ethical values, and patriotism were very high, but for some reason, the society has degenerated to a state where people now take the laws into their hands because of our loss of focus on our cultural values and the inability to allow cultural values to shape and develop our younger people.

“Imagine a situation where Nigerians come to a point where ethics and values are held in high esteem, and our cultural diversity is used to the advantage of all and for the progress of the country. It will go a long way to strengthen the moral and cultural foundations of our dear nation.”