The Executive Director of Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER), Frank Tietie, has decried the unpatriotic attitude of Nigerian leaders, blaming it as the greatest obstacle to the nation’s development.
Tietie, a prominent lawyer and public affairs analyst, expressed his concern during an appearance on Africa Update, a programme monitored by Persecondnews. He said that despite Nigeria’s rich human and natural resources, the country continues to suffer setbacks due to selfish leadership and lack of commitment to national growth.
“Our country has been on a downward trajectory since independence in 1960, plagued by poor leadership that has led to widespread exploitation,” he said. “Many of our leaders plan to retreat to their ethnic communities if the country collapses, showing how uninvested they are in Nigeria’s collective future.”
Tietie lamented that successive governments have focused more on capturing power and winning elections at all costs rather than prioritizing good governance, justice, and the welfare of citizens. He also noted the judiciary’s weakness, rampant corruption, and the disillusionment of citizens in the electoral system as key issues.
He further criticized the rise in medical tourism among Nigerian leaders, stated that while other nations were built through sacrifice and patriotism, Nigeria continued to suffer from systemic looting and lack of visionary leadership.
To change the narrative, Tietie advocated for the adoption of a new national ethos centered on sacrifice, patriotism, and service. “We need a cultural shift where joining the military or public service is seen as a noble duty, not a means of enrichment,” he said.
Tietie emphasized that rebuilding Nigeria requires leaders and citizens alike to put national interest above personal gain and embrace a long-term vision for the country’s future.
