By Chioma Vivian James
ABUJA, Nigeria — The National Advancement Movement (NAM) was formally inaugurated in Abuja amid calls for integrity, patriotism, responsible citizenship and collective action as key drivers of Nigeria’s development.
The inauguration ceremony, which attracted traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, civil society actors, professionals, youth groups, members of the diplomatic community and stakeholders from across the country, marked the official launch of what its leadership describes as a citizen-driven platform for national advancement.
Speaking at the event, the Convener and National Chairman of NAM, Princess Barbara Odoh, described the inauguration as more than the unveiling of an organization, saying it signified the birth of a movement dedicated to promoting national unity, ethical leadership and sustainable development.
According to her, the movement was established to provide Nigerians with a platform through which they can actively contribute to nation-building regardless of ethnic, religious, political or social differences.
“Today is more than the inauguration of an organisation; it is the birth of a movement. A movement driven by the belief that Nigeria can become greater when citizens place integrity, responsibility and patriotism above personal interests,” she said.
Princess Odoh explained that NAM is founded on the principle of “Advancing Nigeria Through Integrity,” with “Nigeria First” serving as its rallying call.
She noted that the movement is neither a political party nor an opposition platform but a civic organization committed to fostering accountability, national unity, responsible leadership and active citizen participation in governance and development.
The NAM leader stressed that meaningful progress cannot be achieved by government alone, urging Nigerians to become active stakeholders in shaping the nation’s future through innovation, entrepreneurship, mentorship, volunteerism and community service.
She challenged members of the9 organization to become ambassadors of integrity in their homes, workplaces, communities and institutions, maintaining that lasting national transformation begins with individual responsibility.
According to her, the movement seeks to build strong institutions capable of promoting ethical values, civic engagement and long-term national development.
Princess Odoh further called on Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and regional divisions, emphasizing that unity remains critical to addressing the country’s challenges and unlocking its vast potential.
“Nigeria has enough human and natural resources to succeed. What is required is a collective commitment to integrity, accountability, hard work and national interest,” she stated.
Call to Uphold Integrity
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Director-General of the Tinubu Support Group, Dr. Tanko Abubakar Yakasai, a representative of the organization commended the leadership of the National Advancement Movement for placing integrity at the heart of its mission.
The speaker charged members of the movement to remain steadfast in upholding integrity, describing it as the foundation of leadership, good governance and sustainable national development.
According to him, integrity remains one of the most important values required to build strong institutions and restore public confidence in governance.
He noted that one of the most significant decisions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu upon assuming office was the removal of fuel subsidy, a policy he said was aimed at repositioning the nation’s economy.
While acknowledging that the decision brought economic hardship to many Nigerians, he maintained that the long-term benefits were intended to strengthen economic growth, improve fiscal sustainability and redirect resources toward critical sectors of development.
The representative also highlighted the Federal Government’s Students Loan Scheme as one of the administration’s major interventions designed to expand access to higher education and create opportunities for Nigerian youths.
He urged members of NAM to continue supporting initiatives that promote national development while remaining committed to constructive engagement and responsible citizenship.
NAM to Promote Civic Awareness.
Also speaking, the Treasurer of the National Advancement Movement, Ernest Ntuk, expressed appreciation to Princess Barbara Odoh for what he described as her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to national advancement.
He commended the Convener’s dedication to promoting integrity and patriotism, describing her as a leader driven by a genuine passion for national development.
Ntuk assured participants that NAM would continue to strengthen its structures across the country while promoting civic awareness and citizen participation.
According to him, the movement would work towards helping Nigerians better understand government programmes and development initiatives, particularly those aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
He stated that NAM would encourage greater public participation in governance and serve as a bridge between citizens and development-oriented policies.
“Our objective is to help citizens appreciate and understand developmental initiatives while encouraging active participation in nation-building. We are committed to supporting efforts that will move Nigeria forward,” he said.
NAMS Executives, Trustees Inaugurated One of the major highlights of the event was the formal inauguration of the National Executive Committee and Board of Trustees of the National Advancement Movement.
The newly inaugurated officials were formally presented to the gathering and charged with the responsibility of driving the vision and objectives of the organization across the country.
Another memorable moment was the presentation of certificates to members of the Board of Trustees in recognition of their commitment to the ideals and mission of the movement.
The ceremony, which featured goodwill messages from stakeholders and supporters, concluded with renewed calls for unity, integrity, patriotism and citizen participation in national development.
A New Civic Force Emerges
With its emphasis on integrity, accountability and responsible citizenship, the National Advancement Movement has positioned itself as a platform seeking to inspire Nigerians to take greater ownership of the nation’s future.
For many participants, the launch of NAM represents the emergence of a new civic force dedicated to fostering ethical leadership, strengthening national cohesion and mobilizing citizens toward building a stronger, more prosperous and united Nigeria.
As the organization begins operations nationwide, its leadership says it remains committed to its guiding philosophy of advancing Nigeria through integrity and placing the nation’s interest above all other considerations.
“May history remember that on this day, Nigerians chose integrity over expediency, responsibility over blame, hope over bitterness and Nigeria above every other interest,” Princess Odoh declared as the event drew to a close.
