As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, an Ogbomoso philanthropist, scholar and businessman, Alhaji Monsur Ejide Ayoade, has felicitated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, customers of Ejide Enterprises and Nigerians at home and abroad.
Ejide described Nigeria as a nation of immense possibilities, blessed with human and natural resources capable of placing it among the world’s leading nations.
He said the 66th anniversary should not only be a celebration of independence but also an occasion for sober reflection, renewed patriotism and collective determination to build a more prosperous country.
In his goodwill message, Ejide congratulated President Tinubu and Nigerians for witnessing another milestone in the nation’s journey since independence.
He said, ‘Independence is not merely the freedom we inherited in 1960; it is also the responsibility we owe to generations yet unborn. Every Nigerian has a role to play in building the country we desire.’
The philanthropist commended Nigerians for their resilience, enterprise and ability to overcome challenges, noting that despite the difficulties confronting the nation, the Nigerian spirit of perseverance, creativity and determination remained unshaken.
He urged the Federal Government to continue pursuing policies that would strengthen the economy, support businesses, create opportunities for young people and improve the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, the success of Nigeria cannot be the responsibility of government alone.
‘Government has a critical role to play, but nation-building is a collective responsibility. Businessmen, professionals, traditional rulers, religious leaders, philanthropists, academics, young people and ordinary citizens must all contribute their quota,’ he said.
Ejide also congratulated Governor Seyi Makinde and the people of Oyo State, urging the government and citizens to continue working together to promote peace, economic development and social stability.
He said Oyo State had enormous potential in agriculture, education, commerce, industry, tourism and human capital development, adding that collaboration between government and the private sector was essential to unlocking those opportunities.
The philanthropist, who has supported educational and community development initiatives, stressed the importance of investing in people.
‘The greatest investment any society can make is investment in its people. When we educate a child, empower a young person, support a business or provide facilities that improve learning, we are building the future,’ he said.
Ejide equally extended Independence Day greetings to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, describing the traditional institution as an important pillar of unity, identity and community development in Ogbomoso.
He called on sons and daughters of Ogbomoso to continue supporting initiatives capable of attracting development, investment and opportunities to the ancient city.
‘Ogbomoso belongs to all of us. Whatever our differences, our common interest must always be the peace, progress and development of our town. We must continue to support our traditional institution, our leaders and every genuine effort aimed at taking Ogbomoso to greater heights,’ Ejide stated.
He also expressed appreciation to customers and business partners of Ejide Enterprises, describing them as an important part of the company’s growth.
He assured them of his continued commitment to integrity, quality service and responsible business practices, while thanking them for their confidence and patronage.
‘To our valued customers, your trust is the foundation upon which Ejide Enterprises continues to grow. We are deeply grateful for your patronage, loyalty and confidence. We shall continue to strive for excellence and remain committed to serving you better,’ he said.
Ejide urged Nigerians to make peace, tolerance, justice, compassion and patriotism central to the nation’s development agenda.
He particularly appealed to Nigerians to reject hatred, ethnic suspicion, religious intolerance and divisive tendencies, stressing that the country’s diversity should remain a source of strength rather than division.
‘Nigeria is our common home. We may speak different languages, practise different religions and come from different parts of the country, but our destiny is intertwined. We must learn to disagree without destroying one another and compete without hatred,’ he said.
He further called on Nigerians in the diaspora to continue contributing their knowledge, resources and expertise to national development.
As Nigeria enters another year of nationhood, Ejide expressed optimism that the country would overcome its challenges and fulfil its potential.
‘I believe in Nigeria. I believe in the Nigerian people. I believe that the challenges before us today will not define our tomorrow. With unity, visionary leadership, hard work, integrity and genuine love for our country, Nigeria will rise to the greatness that God has destined for her,’ he said.
He prayed for President Tinubu, Governor Makinde, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, traditional rulers, government officials, business leaders and all Nigerians, wishing the country peace, stability, prosperity and sustainable development.
‘May this 66th Independence Anniversary usher in a new chapter of peace, prosperity and renewed hope for Nigeria. May God bless our leaders, bless Ogbomoso, bless Oyo State and bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’