The Ancient Religious Societies of African Descendants International Council (ARSADIC), a venerable body representing indigenous African spirituality, has issued a stirring call for national unity, urging Nigerians of all faiths and ethnicities to prioritise the peace and stability of the Commonwealth.
In a formal New Year address directed at the populace of the world’s most populous black nation, the ARSADIC underscored that Nigeria’s inherent strength is derived from its rich tapestry of ethnic and cultural diversity. The Council’s President, Aare (Dr) Ifagbenusola Atanda, reminded citizens of the nation’s profound economic potential and its pivotal role as a cornerstone of the African continent.
Looking ahead to the coming year, the Council proposed a visionary framework for national progress. They maintained that by 2026, every region of the Federation must align under a singular, common development goal. The ARSADIC argued that by functioning as a unified entity, the nation would unlock a period of unprecedented development and domestic peace.
Furthermore, the Council extended its commendations to the Federal Government for the strides made across various economic sectors during the previous year, expressing a prayerful hope that 2026 would yield even greater prosperity than 2025.
The ARSADIC, which traces its institutional lineage back to 1795, also directed a poignant message toward the nation’s political and religious leadership. The Council called upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his administration to seek divine wisdom in navigating the “myriad challenges” currently besetting the nation, particularly within the realms of security and the economy.
“The Federal Government must champion oneness and encourage our people to eschew divisive tendencies, particularly in the spheres of politics and religion,” the Council stated. “With courage, tolerance, and collective leadership, we believe the journey of our national life in 2026 shall be smooth and marked by felicitous events.”
In a direct appeal to the clergy and spiritual heads of all denominations, Dr Atanda emphasised the “huge responsibility” held by religious leaders. The Council warned that failure to speak with a unified voice on matters of national importance would jeopardise the nation’s survival.
The address concluded with a reaffirmation of the traditionalists’ commitment to the Nigerian project, suggesting that resilience and mutual tolerance remain the essential ingredients for a flourishing republic.
