By Adewole Kehinde
In a period of national reflection, where our collective safety, progress, and identity are constantly challenged, there is no better time to return to the basics that hold society together: knowledge, unity, and truth.
Recently, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, articulated a profound message that captures these pillars with clarity. He stated:
“When knowledge stands guard, ignorance retreats. When communities unite, criminals scatter. And when truth takes the microphone, falsehood loses its audience.”
Nothing could be truer, and as a nation, we must reflect deeply on these words.
The Power of Knowledge
Knowledge is more than the acquisition of information; it is the foundation of empowerment. It equips citizens to make informed decisions, solve problems effectively, and experience personal growth. Knowledge enhances cognitive ability, sharpens judgement, builds confidence, and opens doors to greater career opportunities.
For a nation, informed citizens drive innovation, strengthen institutions, and promote social progress. Insecurity thrives where ignorance reigns, but when citizens understand their rights, know their communities, and recognise the signs of danger or manipulation, the society becomes naturally resistant to crime and division.
The Strength of Unity
Unity remains one of the greatest forces any society can wield. When people stand together, across faith, tribe, political inclination, or social status, they build a nation that is resilient in the face of adversity. Unity encourages cooperation, reduces conflict, and fosters a strong sense of belonging.
The advantages are far-reaching:
Greater social cohesion; Collective progress; A more resilient population Sustainable economic growth, Fairer pursuit of social justice, and Effective community development
Criminals thrive in divided communities. But when people unite—sharing information, looking out for each other, and partnering with security agencies—the space for crime becomes smaller and the path to peace becomes clearer.
The Value of Truth
At the heart of every stable society lies truth. Speaking the truth builds trust, strengthens relationships, and nurtures integrity. It reduces mental stress and frees individuals from the burden of remembering lies. Truth simplifies life, promotes inner peace, and creates a culture where accountability and transparency thrive.
In a nation where truth is upheld, corruption diminishes, misinformation loses its grip, and citizens become more confident in their institutions. When truth “takes the microphone”, as the IGP so rightly said, the audience for falsehood disappears.
A United Nigeria Is Possible
If we embrace knowledge, practise unity, and uphold truth, Nigeria can overcome the insecurity challenges that have weighed us down. These three pillars, combined, form the roadmap to a safer, stronger, and more prosperous country.
Knowledge guards us. Unity strengthens us. Truth liberates us.
With these, we can live together as a united Nigeria, with insecurity behind us and progress ahead of us.
Adewole Kehinde is a public affairs analyst based in Abuja. kennyadewole@gmail.com @kennyadewole
