A pledge is described as a solemn oath of loyalty. In Nigeria, before the national pledge is said, the national anthem must have been sung though it mustn’t be at all occasions. The Nigerian national pledge was written by Prof (Mrs.) Felicia Adebola Adeyoyin in 1976.
Today, only a few Nigerians can confidently say the pledge by heart. Though it is recited at every assembly gathering in our primary and secondary schools, many soon forget it once they move to the next level in their academic pursuit and most often than not, never say it again till they die.
Sadly, a good percentage of the Nigerian elite do not remember the content of the pledge, all they can say is “I pledge to Nigeria my country” and that’s all.
I think it’s time we put the anthem aside a little (yes, I said it) since it’s a call to compatriots (who may not be willing anyway), and let us say more of the Nigerian national pledge because it’s a personal oath “I pledge” on what is expected of every individual Nigerian “to be faithful, loyal and honest” and what each of us should do ” to serve Nigeria with all my strength, to defend her unity”. Thereby we would have taken all possible measures in playing our roles “to uphold her honor and glory” and because it’s an oath that must be kept in loyalty, every individual would be kept bound by God who is greater than we all are to be the witness and guide “so, help me God”.
Say the pledge today and mean it!
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