As Nigeria marks its 63rd independence anniversary today amid economic hardship and security challenges, Nigerians have been encouraged to remain steadfast and keep hope in the country alive.
Former presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, his deputy, Benjamin Kalu, state governors and other prominent leaders, in their goodwill messages, noted that despite the current economic challenges in the country, Nigeria has recorded major milestones in its journey to greatness.
Recall the Federal Government last Monday, said no world leader was invited for this year’s ceremony.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, George Akume, who stated this during a press conference in Abuja, said the decision was taken in line with the present economic realities.
The theme of this year’s anniversary is: “Nigeria @ 63, Renewed Hope for Unity & Prosperity.”
Congratulating Nigerians, Buhari said: “For 63 years, Nigeria continues to inspire the rest of the continent with the creativity and diversity of its citizens and now, a long span of democratic rule. I am very optimistic that democracy will continue to gain strength, year after year in our nation.”
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On his part, Jonathan commended Nigerians for their steadfastness and loyalty to the country, in the face of the modest successes recorded and the developmental challenges the nation has faced since independence.
He encouraged Nigerians not to despair but to remain committed to the task of charting a more progressive path for a greater tomorrow, noting that the anniversary offers citizens and leaders the opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey of nationhood.
Also, the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the 2023 general election, Atiku Abubakar, said Nigeria is at a crossroads.
According to him, the nation which was yet to attain its full potential has so much to be grateful for, especially for the industry of its youths in various fields of human endeavour whose achievements have led to the hoisting of the national flag across the globe.
Atiku’s counterpart in the Labour Party, Peter Obi, enjoined Nigerians not to despair over the agonizing situation in the country 63 years after independence but remain resolute and hopeful that a new Nigeria is still possible.
Obi said: “Even amidst grave uncertainties and apparent hardship Nigerians are experiencing due to persistent leadership failure after 63 years of our nationhood”, the situation might be critical, but certainly not hopeless.”
Similarly, Speaker Abbas assured that Nigeria despite numerous challenges would be great again, especially with its abundant human and natural resources.