A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Alhaji Babagana Kingibe, says Nigeria would be a better and prosperous society when its citizens strive to abide by Rotary Club’s four-way test principle.
Kingibe, who was the vice-presidential running mate to late Chief Moshood Abiola in the annulled 1993 presidential election, said the four principles which encourage self-reflection while sharing information on whether: it is the truth, it is fair to all concerned, it will build goodwill and better relationships and beneficial to all, would create a united and tolerant country.
He was speaking on Tuesday in Abuja during the commissioning of a 1000 capacity hall donated to the Rotary District 9125 by Sir Emeka Offor Foundation.
Kingibe said the era of fake news on social media is putting the country on its heels.
“It was exactly these principles which Aristotle used in quashing any information or story he got. Information should always be grounded on how true it is; beneficial to repeat it and can it be verified? These four-way tests are excellent standards which I wish in Nigeria, we can apply universally, especially in this era of social media.
“In fact, I will say anti-social media is more a description of what is going on. When we apply the tests in every part of our social life, we will be a better society that is more united and tolerant of one another,” Kingibe said.
Sir Emeka Offor, while commissioning the project, said that his gesture was part of his corporate social responsibility to an organisation like Rotary that contribute to societal development.
Also, a representative of the foundation, Chris Okey Ezike, said the N73.8m edifice was as a friendship centre where the ideals of the Rotary Club would be promoted and propagated in love for humanity.
He said the foundation has expounded projects for those residing in marginalised communities through education, healthcare services, youth as well as infrastructural development which are in line with the ideals of Rotary International ‘to bring together business and professional leaders in order to provide humanitarian service and advance goodwill’.
On her part, the District head, Jumoke Bamigboye, thanked those who contributed to the edifice, disclosing that the foundation has contributed over $3m to help fight polio.
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