Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and his Delta State counterpart, Sheriff Oborevwori, have urged Nigerians to uphold patriotism and the values of Nigeria’s founding fathers.
They also enjoined Nigerians to remain united and steadfast in supporting ongoing reforms, especially those of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led Federal Government.
Sanwo-Olu, in his Independence anniversary message, said the progress and future of Nigeria depended on the collective efforts of its citizens.
The governor urged Nigerians, particularly Lagos residents, to respond to the challenges confronting the country with renewed faith, responsible citizenship and collective action.
He said Nigeria’s ability to withstand periods of adversity over the years remained a reason for optimism about the country’s future.
According to him, the anniversary should not only be a celebration of Nigeria’s freedom but also an opportunity for citizens to renew their commitment to building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
Sanwo-Olu also paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers, patriots, and past and present public office holders who, he said, had contributed to keeping Nigeria united despite its religious, ethnic and cultural diversity.
He urged Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism through their everyday actions, saying citizens must promote social cohesion, respect the rights of others and contribute meaningfully to national development.
‘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 urged citizens to believe in Nigeria and their collective capacity to build the country they desire.
‘We must not depart from the dream of the founding fathers who fought very hard for us to become a sovereign nation. Our diversity should be a source of strength and not division,’ he said.
Sanwo-Olu also called for greater cooperation between citizens and leaders, urging Nigerians to remain united in the pursuit of national development.
‘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 added.
In Asaba, Delta State, Governor Oborevwori said sustained commitment to achieving enduring development, stability and prosperity in the country was a collective task.
Oborevwori, in his message issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, said Nigeria had the potential to overcome its current challenges, assuring citizens that ‘there is hope on the horizon and brighter days ahead.’
He urged Delta residents to continue supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s MORE agenda.
The governor said his administration was complementing the Federal Government’s efforts through massive infrastructure projects, investment in renewable energy, job creation and measures designed to attract foreign direct investment to Delta State.
‘There is light at the end of the tunnel,’ he said, urging citizens to remain patient, resilient and committed to the Nigerian project.