Leaders Call for Peace, Accountability and National Development.
Leaders Call for Peace, Accountability and National Development.
Governors and public figures have urged Nigerians to promote peace, unity and responsible citizenship as the country marked its 66th Independence Anniversary. Their messages acknowledged persistent challenges, including insecurity, poverty, unemployment and limited access to essential services, while calling for accountability and collective action.
Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris described the anniversary as a time for pride and reflection. He highlighted his administration’s record, including a N75,000 minimum wage, regular salary and pension payments, and more than N10bn paid in gratuities and other entitlements. He also cited investments in schools, hospitals, roads and support for farmers, entrepreneurs, women and people with disabilities.
Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara said peace was essential for development and urged residents to put the state’s shared interests above political differences. He said a stable environment had helped attract investment and deliver projects.
In Plateau, Governor Caleb Mutfwang granted absolute pardons to 130 inmates and commuted four death sentences to life imprisonment. He called on Nigerians to preserve the country’s unity and ensure every citizen has a sense of belonging.
Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde urged citizens to honour the sacrifices of the country’s founders and work across religious and ethnic lines. He pointed to the Amotekun security corps and infrastructure projects as part of his administration’s efforts.
Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo said protecting lives remained his foremost responsibility, and pledged continued cooperation with security agencies and community leaders. He also cited improvements in healthcare, schools and roads. Kano Governor Abba Yusuf similarly appealed for calm ahead of the 2027 elections, while Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu called for closer federal-state cooperation against banditry.
Other governors stressed the need to reject violence, hate speech and division. Abia Governor Alex Otti, however, highlighted the scale of national difficulties, including poverty, unemployment, insecurity and inadequate infrastructure. He urged Nigerians to channel grievances into lawful efforts to improve the country rather than despair or violence.
Kogi Governor Usman Ododo announced executive clemency for 101 inmates and convicts, citing rehabilitation, remorse, medical needs and humanitarian considerations. Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq called for peace and collective security, while Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urged people not to politicise tragedies and to show compassion for victims and grieving families.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki urged young Nigerians to demand better governance, jobs, education and security. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede called for zero tolerance for corruption, warning that corrupt practices could undermine reforms.
Meanwhile, ADC governorship candidate Manir Dan’iya criticised APC-led governments, arguing that hardship and insecurity persisted despite public spending. He called for transparent evidence of results and urged voters to assess parties’ records ahead of the 2027 elections.
