In the often polarizing world of politics, moments of civility and grace can seem like a relic of a bygone era. Yet, the funeral of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter offered a rare glimpse of what respectful political coexistence can look like. It was a moment where ideological adversaries and estranged allies set aside their differences to honor a man whose life epitomized public service and humility. Former President Donald Trump shook hands with his one-time vice president, Mike Pence, and exchanged a rare and serious dialogue with Barack Obama. These simple acts of civility are a masterclass in decorum that Nigerian politicians would do well to emulate.

In Nigeria, where the political landscape is often marred by acrimony, unrelenting rivalry, and an utter disregard for decorum, this moment offers a valuable lesson. It underscores that even in the face of deep disagreements, mutual respect can, and must, prevail. Nigerian politicians need to imbibe this lesson, particularly as the country continues to grapple with divisive political narratives and an economic crisis that demands unity of purpose among its leaders.

The handshake between Trump and Pence was no ordinary gesture. It was a moment laden with historical significance, as it marked the first public reconciliation, however tentative, between two men whose relationship had been severely fractured. Pence had refused Trump’s demands to overturn the 2020 election results, a decision that incited Trump’s supporters to storm the Capitol on January 6, 2021, endangering Pence’s life. Yet, both men put their differences aside, if only for a day, to pay their respects to Carter.

Even more striking was Trump’s engagement with Barack Obama, a president whose legacy he had spent much of his own presidency trying to dismantle. The image of the two men talking, Obama nodding seriously before breaking into a smile, served as a powerful reminder that politics need not always be a zero-sum game. It is possible to disagree vehemently without dehumanizing one another.

Contrast this with the Nigerian political arena, where such moments of grace are almost unheard of. The bitterness of electoral campaigns often lingers long after elections are over, poisoning relationships and perpetuating divisions. Political opponents are not just rivals but are often treated as enemies to be vanquished. Even within parties, internal disagreements frequently lead to public spats, defections, and long-standing grudges.

Nigerian politicians must recognize that statesmanship goes beyond winning elections or securing political appointments. It involves fostering unity, building bridges, and maintaining a standard of civility that sets a positive example for citizens. The handshake between Trump and Pence, as well as the dialogue between Trump and Obama, is a reminder that true leaders prioritize the collective good over personal grievances.

Nigeria’s recent political history is littered with missed opportunities for such statesmanship. The fallout between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his deputy, Atiku Abubakar, is a case in point. Their public feud, which began during their time in office, continues to reverberate in Nigerian politics today. Similarly, the longstanding animosity between President Bola Tinubu and his political ally-turned-rival, Akinwunmi Ambode, serves as another reminder of how personal vendettas often take precedence over governance.

If Trump, Pence, and Obama, men with significant ideological and personal differences, can demonstrate civility on such a public stage, what excuse do Nigerian politicians have? Their inability to rise above petty squabbles not only undermines governance but also erodes public trust in the political process.

The importance of civility in politics cannot be overstated. It fosters a culture of mutual respect that makes constructive dialogue possible. In a country as diverse as Nigeria, where ethnic, religious, and regional differences often intersect with political affiliations, such a culture is essential for national unity. Civility also sets the tone for how ordinary citizens engage with one another. When politicians treat each other with respect, it sends a powerful message to their supporters about the importance of peaceful coexistence.

Moreover, moments of civility can have a calming effect during periods of national crisis. Imagine the impact it would have if political leaders from opposing parties came together to jointly address Nigeria’s economic challenges or the ongoing security crisis. Such a gesture would not only inspire hope but also demonstrate that the country’s leaders are capable of putting national interest above personal ambition.

To achieve this level of statesmanship, Nigeria must address the underlying political culture that perpetuates animosity. This includes fostering a political environment where dissent is not seen as betrayal, and where losing an election does not mean exclusion from governance. Political parties also have a role to play in promoting internal democracy and resolving conflicts amicably.

The media, too, has a responsibility. Just as the American media highlighted the significance of the interactions at Carter’s funeral, Nigerian journalists must focus on promoting narratives that encourage civility rather than sensationalizing conflicts.

Nigerian politicians must rise to the occasion. The challenges facing the country, from a struggling economy to widespread insecurity, require leaders who can set aside their differences and work collaboratively. The rare moment of civility at Carter’s funeral serves as a blueprint for how this can be achieved.

As we approach another election cycle, it is imperative that Nigerian politicians reflect on the example set by Trump, Pence, and Obama. They must ask themselves whether their actions contribute to the unity or further division of the country. The handshake between Trump and Pence may have lasted only a few seconds, but its implications are timeless. It is a reminder that even the bitterest rivalries can be softened by a shared commitment to something greater than oneself.

Let this moment be a wake-up call for Nigeria’s political class. Civility is not a sign of weakness but a hallmark of true leadership. In the words of former President Jimmy Carter, whose life was being honored on that day, “We must adjust to changing times and still hold to unchanging principles.” For Nigerian politicians, one of those unchanging principles should be respect for one another, regardless of differences.