Embracing Kwanzaa in Nigeria: 7 Principles for Daily Living in Communities, Schools, Workplaces, and Faith-Based Organizations -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

Nigeria, a nation rich in cultural and religious diversity, is home to a multitude of religious entities, with churches and mosques as ubiquitous as the ants that traverse its soil. These institutions are not just confined to their traditional spaces but are also found within the grounds of public institutions, reflecting the deep-seated religious inclinations of Nigerians. Despite this outward display of spirituality, the nation grapples with a paradox—a widespread belief in religious values juxtaposed with a troubling mindset that often contradicts these very principles. It is within this context that the 7 Principles of Kwanzaa emerge as a powerful alternative framework for combating corruption, fostering good governance, and cultivating a culture of integrity and accountability.

The 7 Principles of Kwanzaa, known as the Nguzo Saba, were created by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. Dr. Karenga, an African American scholar, developed Kwanzaa as a cultural celebration to honor African heritage and promote unity among African Americans.

The principles—Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith)—were designed to reinforce values that would strengthen families and communities. While Kwanzaa originated in the United States, its principles have universal appeal and are particularly relevant to Nigeria’s current challenges. By extending these principles to address issues such as corruption, economic instability, and social unrest, Nigeria can foster a culture of integrity, accountability, and collective responsibility, paving the way for a more prosperous and harmonious society.

Transcending the Seven Days: A Daily Ethos
The principles of Kwanzaa—Umoja (Unity), Kujichagulia (Self-Determination), Ujima (Collective Work and Responsibility), Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics), Nia (Purpose), Kuumba (Creativity), and Imani (Faith)—are not confined to the annual celebration from which they originate. Instead, they are proposed here as a daily ethos, a set of guiding principles to be lived and practiced every moment of every day. This approach transcends the temporal boundaries of the traditional observance, making the principles a constant companion in the pursuit of a better Nigeria.

Implementing the Principles: A Roadmap for Integration

The integration of the Kwanzaa principles into the daily life of Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach, touching every aspect of society. This includes:

Education System: The principles should be woven into the curriculum of educational institutions, from primary schools to universities. Through interactive lessons, projects, and extracurricular activities, students can learn to apply Umoja in fostering unity among their peers, Kujichagulia in developing their personal goals and aspirations, Ujima in participating in community service projects, Ujamaa in understanding the importance of economic cooperation, Nia in setting clear objectives for their education and future careers, Kuumba in creative problem-solving, and Imani in maintaining faith in their abilities and the future of Nigeria.

Families: Within the home, these principles can guide family dynamics and values. Parents can model Kujichagulia by taking responsibility for their actions and decisions, Ujima by involving all family members in household tasks and discussions, and Ujamaa by managing family finances cooperatively. Children can be encouraged to discover their Nia, or purpose, in their interests and studies, to express Kuumba in their play and learning, and to hold Imani in their dreams for the future.

Training Grounds and Academies: Leadership and professional development programs can incorporate the principles to cultivate a new generation of ethical leaders. Umoja can be emphasized in team-building exercises, Kujichagulia in personal development planning, Ujima in collaborative projects, Ujamaa in understanding the importance of economic ethics, Nia in setting clear leadership goals, Kuumba in innovative thinking workshops, and Imani in fostering a vision for a better Nigeria.

Leadership training, the principles of Kwanzaa offer a framework for ethical governance, community engagement, and strategic planning that is applicable to the presidency, executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Umoja promotes unity in coalition-building across government sectors, Kujichagulia emphasizes personal integrity in leadership roles, Ujima encourages collective action and responsibility, Ujamaa guides equitable economic development strategies, Nia sets a clear vision for national leadership, Kuumba inspires innovative policy-making, and Imani instills faith in the nation’s future. By integrating these principles, Nigeria can develop leaders who are dedicated to the collective well-being and prosperity of the country, ensuring a brighter future for all its citizens.

Human Resources Offices: In the workplace, the principles can shape corporate culture and employee development. Umoja can be fostered through team-building activities, Kujichagulia in personal growth opportunities, Ujima in collaborative projects, Ujamaa in fair and cooperative economic practices, Nia in setting clear organizational goals, Kuumba in encouraging creative solutions, and Imani in believing in the company’s mission and future.

Community and Religious Organizations: These institutions can play a pivotal role in spreading awareness and promoting the practice of the principles. Through sermons, community meetings, and outreach programs, organizations can highlight how Umoja strengthens community bonds, Kujichagulia empowers individuals, Ujima builds collective responsibility, Ujamaa fosters economic cooperation, Nia gives purpose to community efforts, Kuumba inspires innovative solutions to social challenges, and Imani sustains hope and perseverance.

Creating a Handbook: A Guide for Daily Practice
To support the integration of the Kwanzaa principles into daily life, the development of a comprehensive handbook is imperative. This resource would serve as a guide for individuals, families, educators, leaders, and organizations, offering insights, activities, and reflections for each principle. The handbook could include stories of Nigerians who exemplify these principles, practical exercises for applying them in various contexts, and discussion questions for community groups and classrooms. Distribution channels could include educational institutions, community centers, places of worship, and online platforms, ensuring widespread access and engagement.

Conclusion

The transformation of Nigeria into a nation characterized by good governance, ethical leadership, and a culture of integrity is a journey that requires the collective commitment of its people. By embracing the 7 Principles of Kwanzaa as a daily practice, Nigerians can work together towards a shared vision of a prosperous, just, and peaceful society. This endeavor is not just a call to action but a summons to live out these principles in every aspect of life, creating a ripple effect that can reshape the nation’s future. The principles of Kwanzaa, when practiced daily, offer a beacon of hope, guiding Nigeria towards a new dawn of unity, purpose, and faith in the collective journey ahead.

John Egbeazien Oshodi

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is an American-based police and prison scientist, forensic psychologist, public policy psychologist, and legal psychologist. He’s a government advisor on forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA and the founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation for Psychological Health. With a significant role in introducing forensic psychology to Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, he’s also a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. He’s taught at esteemed institutions like Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Nova Southeastern University, and more, and is currently an online faculty member at Weldios University, Nexus International University, and Walden University. John.Oshodi@mail.waldenu.edu