Nigeria at 65: National Assembly, governors urge unity and optimism
Nigeria at 65: National Assembly, governors urge unity and optimism
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence from Britain, leaders of the National Assembly, state governors, socio-political groups, and citizens nationwide have called for unity, resilience, and renewed dedication to nation-building.
The Federal Government had earlier declared Wednesday, October 1, a public holiday to commemorate the country’s attainment of sovereignty in 1960.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed confidence that Nigeria is on the right path, noting that the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu are beginning to show positive results.
“At 65, we are a mature nation and must work towards greater unity and the prosperity of our people. We commend your resilience, patience, and endurance over the past two years, and we sincerely value your support and understanding,” he stated.
Citing the theme of this year’s anniversary, ‘All hands are on deck for a greater Nigeria’, Akpabio urged citizens to continue to endure the temporary hardship brought about by the reforms.
“We are not unaware of the pains occasioned by the reforms. But I want to assure you that very soon, this will be a thing of the past because the benefits are beginning to manifest positively,” he added.
The Senate President further cautioned Nigerians against buying into narratives that portray the country as hopeless.
“I must emphasize that Nigeria is not finished. Do not be swayed by the false narrative that the nation is beyond redemption. We are on the right track, and President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is reshaping the country. Progress is being made, and if we all work together to support these reforms, Nigeria will become stronger and eventually reach the promised land,” he said.
In his Independence Day message, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, through his Chief Press Secretary, Leke Baiyewu, urged Nigerians to remain optimistic about the future.
“With the ongoing implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Nigeria is on the right course. We remain the giant of Africa,” Abbas affirmed, pledging that the 10th National Assembly would uphold accountable leadership, good governance, and the delivery of democratic dividends.
Similarly, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, in a statement released by his media aide, Ismail Mudashir, congratulated Nigerians and called for unwavering support for the President.
“At 65, our nation faces challenges, but we shall overcome them. By God’s grace, Nigeria will emerge stronger from its current trials,” Barau said, urging citizens to rally behind the Renewed Hope Agenda.
