Yusuf Olaolu Ali, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has said that Nigeria's problems would persist until citizens undergo a change in attitude, urging Nigerians to embrace patriotism and the fear of God in all their dealings.

Ali, a professor, stated this in Ilorin, Kwara State, while receiving the newly elected executive members of the Correspondents' Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council, led by Biola Azeez, the chairman.

He observed that the country was grappling with a series of challenges driven by nonchalance, self-centredness, corruption, and a lack of respect for others. He noted that the role of the media in reshaping the nation and serving as a mirror of society remained critical and must be strengthened to change the narrative.

The renowned jurist said: "You are the people who make it possible for us to know. Your role is very critical, and for you to inform the general public, you must be well-informed; otherwise, it will amount to spreading ignorance, which would be disastrous. Keep up the good work, and I urge you to uphold social responsibility and the ethics of your profession by reporting accurately and efficiently."

Speaking on the state of the nation, Ali added: "We are our own problem. The level of corruption and selfishness is high. As long as I am comfortable, nothing else matters - that attitude is seriously affecting us."

He advised Nigerians to love their neighbours as themselves and urged leaders to prioritise the welfare of the people. He also called on the political class to work towards rebuilding the nation as the 2027 general elections approach.

"Politicians should love the people as they love themselves. They should remember that there will be a day of accountability. Even if one does not believe in anything, death is inevitable, and that should guide our actions.

"We should see politics as a platform for service. If we do, the level of desperation will be reduced. Politicians should promote peaceful coexistence.

"We already face numerous challenges such as banditry, kidnapping, insurgency among others and these are deeply troubling, therefore, political crises should not be added to these existing problems. Rather, politicians should provide solutions.

"The problems of Nigeria will not end until Nigerians change their actions. Citizens also contribute to corruption. For instance, traders inflate prices during festive periods, and many create unnecessary problems for personal gain.

"We must stop 'stomach infrastructure' politics, where voters accept money in exchange for votes, thereby losing the moral right to hold leaders accountable.

"I hope we will change, improve our patriotism, love our neighbours as ourselves, and above all, remain prayerful," he said.