As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence amid mounting national challenges, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rallied Nigerians to rise above adversity, keep faith in the country and take collective responsibility for its future.
Sanwo-Olu, who is also Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, said Nigeria’s survival through decades of trials remained a source of hope, urging citizens to rekindle the spirit of patriotism, resilience and determination that inspired the country’s founding fathers.
The governor made the call in his Independence Anniversary message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.
He said the October 1 anniversary should not be reduced to ceremonies and celebrations, but should serve as a moment for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s 66-year journey and renew their commitment to building a stronger, united and prosperous nation.
According to him, the future of Nigeria cannot be left to government alone, insisting that every citizen has a role to play in overcoming the challenges confronting the country.
“As citizens, we must believe in our country and in our collective capacity to build the nation we all desire. We must not depart from the dream of the founding fathers who fought very hard for us to become a sovereign nation,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians, particularly Lagos residents, to respond to the nation’s difficulties with responsible citizenship, unity and renewed faith in the country.
He said Nigeria had passed through difficult periods since gaining independence in 1960 but had repeatedly demonstrated the capacity to withstand adversity.
“As we look back on our journey in the last 66 years, it is clear that Nigeria has weathered trials and celebrated triumphs.
“Since our independence on October 1, 1960, Nigeria has experienced periods of progress and difficult challenges, but our ability to endure through adversity has remained a reason for optimism about our future,” he said.
The governor paid tribute to the nation’s founding fathers and other patriots, as well as past and present public office holders who had contributed to keeping Nigeria united despite its religious, ethnic and cultural differences.
He also congratulated President Bola Tinubu on the country’s 66th Independence anniversary, saying Nigeria was witnessing growth and development under his leadership.
Sanwo-Olu challenged Nigerians to make patriotism a daily responsibility, rather than something expressed only during national celebrations.
He urged citizens to respect one another’s rights, strengthen social cohesion and contribute to national development, stressing that Nigeria’s diversity should be harnessed as a strength.
“Our diversity should be a source of strength and not division. As we celebrate the 66th Independence anniversary, let us recommit ourselves to doing what is right, work with our leaders for a better country, and walk in unity as one family.
“Let us remember that the strength of Nigeria lies in its diversity, and I believe strongly that the future of Nigeria will be shaped by the choices we make together.”
He called on Nigerians to remain committed to the country’s unity and collective progress, saying the Nigeria of the future would ultimately depend on the choices and actions of its citizens today.