The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, called on citizens to join hands with the government in building a stronger nation as Nigeria celebrated its 66th Independence anniversary on Thursday.
Aiyedatiwa made the call during the Independence Day celebration in Akure, the state capital, urging Nigerians to see nation-building as a collective responsibility rather than a task for government alone.
He said, “We are grateful for the peace we continue to enjoy, for the strength to confront our prevailing challenges and for the privilege of witnessing another year in the life of our great country.
“Today, as we commemorate 66 years of nationhood, we reflect on the journey we have travelled, the responsibilities that remain before us and the future we must collectively build.
“Around this period, 66 years ago, a generation of Nigerians dared to believe that a people of many tongues, traditions and faiths could share one destiny. They handed to us not a finished country, but the responsibility to build, preserve and improve the country whose freedom they secured through courage, sacrifice and conviction.
“Independence, therefore, is more than the memory of a date; it is a continuing responsibility to the past, the present and the future. It challenges every generation to ask: What have you done with the inheritance entrusted to you?”
The governor urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to peace, unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship.
He added, “As we celebrate this Independence anniversary, let us renew our faith in Nigeria and our commitment to the work of nation-building.
“Let us continue to uphold peace, unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, knowing that the Nigeria we desire will not be built by government alone, but by the collective efforts of its citizens.”
Aiyedatiwa also commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to reform the nation’s economy.
He said the state appreciated the administration’s efforts to strengthen the economy, infrastructure and investment environment, as well as its focus on strategic development opportunities with implications for Ondo State.
“We recognise his efforts towards strengthening the economy, infrastructure and investment environment, as well as its attention to strategic development opportunities with positive implications for Ondo State.
“We particularly appreciate the cooperation surrounding initiatives such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, the proposed Deep-Sea Port and other projects capable of expanding the economic prospects of our state.
“We look forward to deeper collaboration in the interest of our people and the continued development of Nigeria,” the governor said.