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27.08.2023 Feature Article

The National Day Of Honesty For All Nigerians Proposed By A Psychologist

Psychologist John Egbeazien OshodiPsychologist John Egbeazien Oshodi
27.08.2023 LISTEN

Championed by this psychologist, the "National Day of Honesty" unites Nigerians to pursue honesty, healing, and renewal. This novel idea tackles corruption's emotional toll through collective reflection, open dialogues, and mutual support. By empowering individuals and communities, the initiative counters corruption's corrosive effects. Concrete steps include gaining stakeholder backing, utilizing diverse communication channels, defining activities, and promoting community involvement. Expanding into a "1st of Month of Transparent Healing and Renewal" highlights the dedication to lasting change and emotional restoration for the nation.

Using the psychologist's understanding of human behavior and emotions as a guide, this piece lays out a detailed plan for uniting Nigerians in a call to action, paving the way towards a better future characterized by integrity, healing, and collective responsibility.

The National Day of Honesty stands as a beacon of unity and collective determination, drawing inspiration from esteemed holidays like New Year's Day, Labor/Workers' Day, and Democracy Day. It emerges as a unique opportunity for Nigerians to join hands in making a lasting positive impact on their nation, transcending differences to address a common adversary: corruption.

The electoral process was shrouded in suspicion and darkness, revealing worrisome levels of corruption, making it imperative to hold a "Day of Honesty" for reflection. The amazing effort is set to launch on March 1st, a date chosen for its historical significance related to a controversial victory in Nigeria's presidential election on March 1st, 2023.

Amidst controversy and unsettling revelations, the nation reacted in grief, united differently. On March 1st, a day originally meant for celebration, businesses, schools, and citizens paused to signal a stand against dishonesty. This day wasn't just about history; it was a resolute step towards change. Past achievements dimmed in the shadow of corruption's grip.

The introduction of the envisioned National Day of Honesty has taken on a profound significance, serving as a resounding call to confront corruption directly. While Nigeria may not stand alone in grappling with corruption, its pervasive influence taints various domains – from institutions, law enforcement, and court systems to governance, politics, economy, schools, religion, healthcare, and countless other aspects of operations and life.

Dishonest practices cast a shadow over every facet of activity, painting a troubling picture. This day reverberates with a clear message: Transformation is both a fervent aspiration and an unwavering responsibility. As the sun sets, it ushers in a new beginning, making this day a poignant choice.

On this designated day, people from diverse backgrounds unite to combat the widespread dishonesty that jeopardizes our nation's stability. Exploring the profound emotional, psychological, and societal aspects of corruption, this event holds the power to catalyze rejuvenation from these dark practices.

Corruption, a cancer that infects every facet of society, demands a concerted and united response. To combat its corrosive effects, the proposal for a "National Day of Collective Reflection" is paramount. This innovative initiative aims to bring together a diverse array of organizations—ranging from corporations and government agencies to educational institutions and religious communities. On this day, collective introspection takes center stage, a shared soul-searching that has the power to ignite a transformative shift in societal values and individual behavior.

Recognizing that corruption's tendrils are deeply embedded in Nigerian society, a comprehensive approach is imperative. The multifaceted nature of this challenge necessitates an equally comprehensive response—one rooted in introspection, communication, and the courage to chart a new course. Enter the "National Day of Reflection and Conversation," a platform that empowers families to engage in crucial dialogues with their children. It also serves as a vehicle for shedding light on the shame associated with corruption, fostering a shared understanding that empowers future generations.

As the dawn of this monumental day approaches, Nigeria stands on the cusp of a remarkable journey. The National Day of Honesty beckons, promising a collective pursuit of truth and renewal. It symbolizes the commitment of a nation unwilling to accept the status quo—a nation that believes in the potential for change, and armed with open conversations and honest reflections, is poised to reshape its destiny.

On this historic day, businesses pause, government agencies halt, schools stand still, families and religious communities gather. March 1 marks a collective commitment—a solemn pledge to uphold integrity, authenticity, and moral strength.

The proposed "National Day of Reflection and Conversation" holds the potential to bring together a diverse array of voices. By engaging families, workers, students, pupils, priests, mothers, clerics, and everyone, Nigeria can forge a collective commitment to combating corruption. This united front can help create a society that values honesty, integrity, and accountability, ultimately fostering a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Remembering March 1's Meaning March 1 is a sobering reminder of Nigeria's promise and its ongoing challenges. Today is a good time to focus the momentum of recent events on eliminating widespread corruption.

Businesses, government agencies, educational organizations, churches, and citizens all take a stand against corruption by pausing for a moment of silence. This united front represents a commitment to addressing the widespread dishonesty that impedes development.

On that day, Nigeria is forced to face the emotional and psychological damage that corruption has done to the country. These wounds go far beyond the country's economic well-being.

Truth bound religious institutions welcome open, honest, and uncensored discussions on the human cost of corrupt policies and procedures. Healing and restoration can only begin with these kinds of conversations.

The moment of silence is more than just a symbolic gesture; it is a pledge of honesty and strength. It's a formal promise to be more ethically responsible in the future by maintaining values like honesty and self-control.

Truth-telling has a unifying and empowering effect on communities when it is shared with more people. These groups will protect one another against the attraction of corruption by providing mutual aid and working as a formidable support system.

The day will conclude with a formal declaration attesting to Nigeria's renewed dedication to integrity, growth, and healing. The evolution of the country can be traced back to the principles outlined in this declaration.

Nigeria's direction could be dramatically altered by the March 1 "Day of Transparent Healing and Renewal" that has been proposed. By acknowledging the suffering, encouraging open communication, and reducing the appeal of corruption, today can serve as a catalyst for positive change. As Nigeria seeks to heal its wounds as a nation, March 1 can serve as a compass pointing the way toward a brighter future marked by moral strength, long-term prosperity, and a shared commitment to the pursuit of truth.

March 1 is a significant day in Nigeria's history and provides an opening for the country to confront its problems head-on. We suggest a "Month of Transparent Healing and Renewal" to promote growth and healing by uniting corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, religious communities, and individuals in the fight against corruption. This long-term effort seeks to cleanse the soul, cultivate self-control, and lessen the grip of temptation by exploring the emotional, psychological, and sociological aspects of dishonesty via open and earnest discourse.

As a show of solidarity against the ubiquitous dishonesty that impedes progress, this day sees a temporary halt to business as usual for corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, religious groups, and private citizens alike.

As the month of March 1 unfolds, Nigeria is forced to face the grievous scars that corruption has caused. These wounds have a far-reaching impact on the nation's emotional and psychological health, going far beyond the sphere of economics.

Throughout that day, houses of worship around the country are opening their doors as safe havens for candid discussions about the emotional toll that unethical practices have taken on community members. The nation's healing and rebuilding depend on these conversations.

A Commitment to Integrity and fortitude, turn this day into a solemn promise and a recommitment to acting with the highest standards of morality and self-control.

Throughout the day, professionals, academics, and community leaders get together with average residents for "Guided Dialogues for Pragmatic Transformation." These discussions go far beyond just platitudes, offering concrete solutions for making Nigeria corruption-free.

Throughout the 1st of March, workshops will explore the complexities of corruption, illuminating the stark realities that must be confronted. The sessions focus on helping the client heal emotionally, restoring trust, and learning to exercise self-discipline.

Truth strengthens community relationships by encouraging a sense of togetherness and mutual accountability. The mutual aid provided by these networks is a strong deterrent to the temptations of corruption.

Nigeria's renewed dedication to integrity, growth, and reconciliation is memorialized in a written declaration that will be released at the end of the month. This proclamation will be a beacon for the transformation of the country.

The proposal of declaring March 1 as the "Month of Transparent Healing and Renewal" could spark a significant shift in Nigeria. Over the course of a month, this effort becomes a crucible for sustainable transformation by facing suffering, promoting open discourse, and reducing the allure of corruption. This month-long event stands out as a powerful lighthouse as Nigeria faces its demons and engages in communal healing, pointing the way toward a future defined by moral strength, long-term growth, and a shared commitment to the pursuit of honesty.

On March 1, a day inscribed in Nigeria's history, the country can take a meaningful step toward confronting its problems head on. We suggest a "Day of Transparent Healing and Renewal" as a solemn call to action in the fight against corruption, urging businesses, public services, schools, and religious institutions to join together on this day. This program seeks to purify the soul, encourage self-control, and lessen the power of temptation by exploring the spiritual, psychological, and social dimensions of dishonesty via honest and open discussion.

In a daylong show of solidarity against the corrupting influence of dishonesty, corporations, government agencies, educational institutions, religious communities, and private citizens will all stop what they're doing on March 1 to protest the crime.

The 1st of March gives Nigeria the opportunity to heal from the scars that corruption has caused. These losses affect the nation on a deeper level than just financially. Conversations regarding the emotional toll that unethical practices have can happen safely and openly inside the safe boundaries of religious spaces. Collective healing and societal rejuvenation can be achieved through conversations like these.

A Public Proclamation of Integrity and Private Fortitude: March 1 Goes Beyond Symbolism. It becomes an oath, a promise to be truthful, honorable, and self-controlled once more, revitalizing the country's moral compass.

Beginning on March 1, the workshops delve into the intricacies of corruption, illuminating unwavering truths that demand confrontation. These sessions prioritize aiding participants in their emotional recovery, fostering the restoration of trust, and cultivating essential character traits such as restraint.

Truth-telling dialogues reach out to entire neighborhoods, fostering cohesion and collective accountability. These bonds of friendship and support constitute an effective barrier against the temptations of corruption.

The day will end with a formal declaration attesting to Nigeria's renewed dedication to integrity, growth, and healing. This proclamation will serve as a lighthouse for the change of the country.

The idea of "March 1: A Day of Honesty for Nigeria's Renewal" has the potential to spark a movement that would change the country for the better. This project emerges as a catalyst for enduring change because it confronts the pain, fosters open discourse, and challenges the grasp of corruption in a single day. The events of March 1st serve as a steadfast lighthouse pointing the way toward a future marked by ethical fortitude, sustainable progress, and a shared dedication to the pursuit of honesty as Nigeria faces its demons, begins collective healing, and prepares for restoration.

Envisioning the creation of a profound 'National Day of Honesty' in Nigeria, a poignant day infused with the fervor of integrity and the profound resonance of ethical principles, where the collective heartbeat of the nation pulses with the raw emotions of transparency and truth, fostering an unbreakable bond among citizens, igniting a fiery passion for change, and standing as a steadfast beacon against the shadows of corruption.

As the eve of this significant day approaches, Nigeria stands at a pivotal juncture—an opportunity ripe with the potential for transformative change. The National Day of Honesty calls upon us to draft a fresh narrative, a testament to our resolute dedication to truth and rejuvenation. Within its embrace, solace, unity, and the prospect of a more radiant future await. Let us advance with open hearts, poised to cast off the burden of corruption and welcome the soothing balm of healing that this day promises. Together, we shall ascend, bound by purpose, as our collective tears metamorphose into the rain nurturing the seeds of a candid and revitalized nation. Let us strive for improvement!

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, who was born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, to a father who served in the Nigeria police for 37 years, is an American-based police and prison scientist and forensic, clinical, and legal psychologist. A government consultant on matters of forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA; and a former interim associate dean and assistant professor at Broward College, Florida. The Founder of the Dr. John Egbeazien Oshodi Foundation, Center for Psychological Health and Behavioral Change in African Settings. A former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association. In 2011, he introduced state-of-the-art forensic psychology into Nigeria through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, where he served in the Department of Psychology as an Associate Professor. He has taught at various universities and colleges including Florida memorial University, Florida International University, Broward college, Lynn University, and a contributing faculty member at the Weldios university in Benin Republic, Nexus International University, Uganda, Nova Southeastern University and Walden University in USA. Professor Oshodi is highly regarded as an authority on psycho-prescriptive writings concerning African institutional and governance matters. With an impressive body of work that encompasses over forty academic publications and books, as well as over 300 public opinion articles, he emphasizes the values of truth, ethics, and transparency in his work.

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