In celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, the Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the security of lives and property in the state.
According to a press release issued by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, on Tuesday, Bala stated, “As a responsible and responsive government, we have taken measures, in collaboration with security agencies, to protect the lives and property of our people by swiftly addressing any form of security challenges.
“I want to assure you that security will continue to be our top priority so that the relative peace being enjoyed in the state is sustained.”
The statement, while extending the governor’s felicitations on the occasion of the 64th Independence anniversary, called on Nigerians to reflect on the struggle and sacrifice of the country’s founding fathers and to ensure that their efforts were not in vain.
It maintained that, 64 years after independence, Nigerians have proudly overcome scepticism about their ability to govern themselves.
Bala stated, “Today, we have shown the world that, against all odds, we are not only capable of governing ourselves but can also understand our differences, respect each other’s values, and unite towards developing our country despite our sociocultural diversity.
“Since attaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has faced serious setbacks in the political arena, which have significantly affected its political and economic growth.
However, it is heartening that today, democracy has taken root in the country. The dividends of democracy are evident, and the citizens are content.
“In Bauchi State, we have adopted a multi-dimensional approach to all developmental projects, which has led to success, particularly in infrastructural development.”
The governor commended Nigeria’s resilience in the face of current economic hardships, which he said have made life difficult for many.
“Let me reassure you that the palliative measures taken by both the State and Federal Governments to mitigate the hardship through the provision of food and non-food items will be sustained. I, therefore, urge you to exercise more patience and cooperate with the government in its efforts to bring relief to everyone,” he said.
He also appealed to Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the development of the country.