The Ukomu Igala Organisation (UIO) Worldwide has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for pursuing economic reforms, even as it called on the Federal Government to do more to tackle poverty, insecurity, and the decline of social amenities across the country.
In a statement issued to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, the UIO President, Major General James Ataguba (Rtd), said the organisation, which represents the Igala people of Kogi State, joined other Nigerians at home and in the diaspora in celebrating the milestone.
Ataguba described Nigeria as ‘a symbol of resilience, strength, unity in diversity, and boundless opportunities’ despite decades of challenges, and said the Igala people had remained committed stakeholders in the Nigerian project through their contributions to security, public service, commerce, education, and culture.
He acknowledged what he called the ‘determination and courage’ of the Tinubu administration in steering the country through economic and structural reforms, noting that such reforms, though necessary for a stronger economy and sustainable development, could be painful in the short term.
However, the retired military general said the UIO was concerned that multidimensional poverty, insecurity, and deteriorating social infrastructure – particularly at the grassroots – remained pressing issues that could undermine the gains of government reforms if not urgently addressed.
‘Unless addressed urgently, these issues will ultimately diminish the current efforts of the Federal Government,’ Ataguba said, calling for ‘more practical and productive steps’ to improve the welfare of Nigerians.
He urged Nigerians to remain united and committed to nation-building, stressing that the future of the country could not be achieved by government alone but would require the ‘shared commitment and sacrifices, hard work, and patriotism of all citizens.’
Describing Nigeria as ‘a beacon of hope for Africa and the Black race,’ Ataguba said the country’s diversity remained its strength and its unity its shield, expressing optimism that Nigeria would eventually become ‘the envy and desire of all nations.’
The UIO president congratulated the government and people of Nigeria on the anniversary and prayed for continued peace, stability, and progress for both Kogi State and the country at large.
The statement was signed by Major General James Ataguba (Rtd), President of the Ukomu Igala Organisation Worldwide.