In commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, students from tertiary institutions in Rivers State gathered for the National Unity Quiz Competition, popularly known as Quiz Nigeriana, an initiative aimed at promoting history learning, national unity, and peaceful coexistence.
The event, themed “Renewing Hope in Nigeria’s Unity,” was organised by Community Conciliation and Development Initiative (CCADI) in partnership with LIN Green Initiative.
Participants were drawn from the University of Port Harcourt, Rivers State University, and Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, with four teams representing Abia, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom States.
Convener of the competition, Dr. Kelechi Justin, explained that Quiz Nigeriana was conceived in 2011 following the removal of history from Nigeria’s secondary school curriculum. He said the platform gives young people an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s past while celebrating independence in a fun and engaging way.
“Many young people do not know much about Nigeria’s history. This competition helps them understand how we came to be, where we are, and where we need to go. It is time we move from being a country of potential to one that achieves its goals,” he said.
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Tobechukwu Diolu, Executive Director of LIN Green Initiative, described the competition as a form of advocacy. “It’s not just about the prize but about learning. People learn better when it’s fun, and this is a refreshing way to build patriotism among young Nigerians,” he said, urging government to restore history as a core subject in schools.
Poet and nation-building advocate, Chineye Gift EdeAni, praised the initiative as a symbol of hope at a time when many young Nigerians are losing faith. “This quiz is proof that people are committed to building Nigeria, not with weapons but with positive actions in society,” she noted.
At the end of the contest, Team Abia from the University of Port Harcourt emerged winners of the 2025 edition, clinching the star prize of ₦100,000.
Speaking after their victory, the team thanked the organisers and called for the urgent implementation of history into Nigeria’s school curriculum.
Organisers expressed optimism that Quiz Nigeriana will continue to expand nationwide as a tool for education, civic engagement, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s national identity.
