Thinking the Philosophy!
In the conversation about the membership of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), the question always arises: what type of person can be a member of the organisation? Beyond that, some people often ask: who is a Pyrate? What exactly is a Pyrate? The classical guide to the correct answer to the question lies in the philosophy the organisation’s founders began to articulate in the founding principles established in 1952:
“Pyracy is a way of life, an ideology/philosophy embraced by the liberated person, who, having identified the constraints militating against the attainment of a just society, shows resolve in combating them and joins the Pyrates Confraternity to join hands with other like minds to do so.”
The organisation’s ideals inspire its members, individually and collectively, to rise to the challenge of actively working for the needed change in society. Succinctly, “Pyrates must be doing, not yapping. Wherever the community in which we exist needs a hand, in whatever cause, to enthrone these principles, the PYRATE must be FIRST”.
Walking the Talk!
Over 70 years of its existence, members of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) have worked diligently, but often discreetly, towards the socio-political transformation of Nigeria. We were the flag bearers and bulwark in the fight against military dictatorships in Nigeria in the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
Pyrates were key activists in the democratic struggles against various military juntas in Nigeria. Critical in the pro-democracy activities of NADECO in the years of General Sani Abacha, many of our members were hounded, brutalised, incarcerated and tortured. Pyrates have remained resolute social advocates, despite being the unsung heroes of those dark ages of predatory military dictatorship and gross abuse of the fundamental human rights of Nigerians.
We Are What We Do!
Traditionally and for many years, in carrying out the objectives of the Pyrates Confraternity, we do not seek accolades or validation. Misconceptions about our confraternity have resulted directly from this old organisational aversion to media publicity of who we are and what we do. Recently, to counter the distracting incorrect perceptions, we made the needful decision to share the facts of our own story. At the same time, we essentially get on with rendering the service needed to make a difference for the community.
With an estimated 1000+ projects and events over the decades, the Pyrates Confraternity members remain energised to raise the bar in whatever we do in the service of community and humanity. We continually challenge ourselves with the question: what can we do to raise society to the highest fulfilment? A few of the things our members have actively worked on include:
- As survivors of police brutality, individually and collectively, our members worldwide fully participated in the historic protests: marching, supporting protesters and raising across the media.
- Our members have been championing the cause for a detribalised Nigeria for over 50 years through its projects. Our multi-ethnic, multi-religious, and politically diverse membership proves that unity in diversity works. It drives empathy and creativity towards a more significant and agreeably enriched collective experience.
- The #OurVotesCount Project strengthens democratic values through voter education initiatives sensitising and empowering voters towards demanding accountability from Nigeria’s elected political and civic leaders.
- Through the NAS Medical Mission, our members in the medical professions deliver accessible medical interventions to disadvantaged communities with limited access to quality healthcare. Our medical advocacy also seeks a review of the obsolete 1958 Mental Health Bill that is still operational in Nigeria.
- Members who are legal professionals provide pro-bono legal assistance, especially for the weak and defenceless in our communities. We also champion cases towards promoting citizens’ rights.
These are just a few projects our members conceptualise and actively champion. What we do, and will continue to do, is down to the idealism inherent in our organisational philosophy and the intellectual grit of our members worldwide, with their dedication to the inspirational founding principles of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity).
Membership. Who is ideal?
Membership in the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is not an all-comers affair. We seek to join hands ONLY with those who strongly connect with the ethos of the Pyrates Confraternity.
Membership of our organisation is not for those with no zeal or interest in championing justice, human rights, selfless service to the community and social advocacy. If the core values and activities declared above DO NOT resonate with you, please do not apply for membership. The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) is not for you.
As we commemorate the 70th anniversary, we recognise that the members, inspired by the organisation’s philosophy, have made the most difference in our achievements. Are you passionate about working for a better and just society? Are you in tune with the ideals of human rights, community service and social advocacy? Do you yearn to imbibe progressive values into your way of life? If yes, we encourage you to #JoinHandsWithLikeMinds.
To visit our Membership page, click here.
