CBK to speak on unity in diversity in Lagos

Former President Chandrika Kumaratunga will deliver the keynote address at the 13th annual conference of the Anyiam-Osigwe Foundation in Lagos today at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA).  

Kumaratunga’s topic at this event will be ‘Unity in diversity building shared and inclusive societies for peace and prosperity,’ which flows from the broad theme of the 13th session: ‘Synthesis for nationhood: Ethnic policy and national integration: From indigenes to citizens.’

Michael Anyiam-Osigwe, Co-ordinator-General of the Foundation, said: “Nigeria is currently going through very serious security and political challenges. The issues of ethnicity and tribalism have taken an unprecedented dimension in Nigeria’s national life and added all is seen and done on the national stage through an ethnic prism.”

Michael Anyiam-Osigwe further said during her presidency, Kumaratunga promoted policies that made integration possible in her country. “Today an average Sri Lankan sees himself or herself as a citizen of the country,” he added.

The Anyiam-Osigwe Foundation is an autonomous entity, not affiliated to any interest group, political party or religious organization. It was established to give further development to its philosophy, principles and value systems.