Nigeria marked its 63rd independence anniversary in the midst of economic hardships and security challenges, but leaders from various sectors encouraged Nigerians to stay resolute and hopeful about the future of the country.
Former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, along with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, state governors, and other prominent figures, acknowledged that despite the prevailing economic challenges, Nigeria has achieved significant milestones in its journey towards greatness.
The Federal Government had announced that no world leader was invited to this year’s ceremony, citing economic realities.
Buhari expressed optimism about Nigeria’s democratic progress and the resilience of its citizens.
Jonathan commended Nigerians for their loyalty and encouraged them to remain committed to shaping a brighter future for the nation.
Atiku Abubakar, the PDP presidential candidate in the 2023 election, acknowledged that Nigeria stands at a crossroads and praised the achievements of Nigerian youths worldwide.
Peter Obi, Atiku’s counterpart in the Labour Party, urged Nigerians to remain hopeful despite the challenges, emphasizing that the situation is critical but not hopeless.
Speaker Abbas and Deputy Speaker Kalu reassured Nigerians that the country would recover its greatness and called for unity and patriotism.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State urged Nigerians to unite with renewed determination to address the nation’s challenges.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State implored Nigerians not to give up and to support government efforts to salvage the nation’s economy.
Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State commended Nigerians for their resilience and urged them to pray and work together to overcome economic challenges.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State encouraged Nigerians to dream of a better future and put the country first.
Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, called for the strengthening of democratic institutions to make governance more responsive.
The PDP congratulated Nigerians for surviving the challenges of the past years and called for national reawakening.
The APC assured Nigerians that measures were in place to reposition the country for growth and development.
The National Chairman of the Labour Party blamed Nigeria’s stunted growth on institutional conspiracy and corruption and expressed hope for a “New Nigeria” if leaders prioritize the nation’s interests.
The Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Dr. Ekpenyong Akpanika, expressed concerns about Nigeria’s future and the economic turmoil but called on Nigerians to have faith.
Solomon Arase, Chairman of the Police Service Commission, encouraged Nigerians to celebrate the freedom won by past heroes and believe in Nigeria’s rise again.
The National President of the Christian Council of Nigeria called for seeking God’s forgiveness and reflection on the nation’s past actions.
On Nigeria’s 63rd anniversary, leaders from various sectors shared messages of hope and encouragement, highlighting the challenges the country faces but emphasizing the need for unity, faith, and hard work to build a better future.