65th Independence Anniversary: Leaders Celebrate, Optimistic about Nation’s Future

Our Correspondents

Although a milestone celebrated low key, prominent Nigerians leaders, yesterday, marked the nation’s 65th independence anniversary with high optimism about a better and brighter future.

Many of those who spoke attributed the cause for celebrations to President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, believed to have begun to yield results among the people.

While some members of the opposition disagreed with some of the progress being celebrated by the administration, a majority of the people, including non-members of the. ruling party, celebrated the president alongside the nation.

Atiku: Nigerians Are Hungry Amid Plenty

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised President Bola Tinubu’s independence day speech, insisting Nigerians are hungry in the midst of plenty.

In his reaction to the president’s speech, Atiku, in statement by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said the president spoke glowingly of “turning the corner,” of laying foundations “in concrete and not on quicksand,” and of supposed victories in education, healthcare, the economy, and national security.

Atiku, who said by implication of empty pots, Nigerians were hungry, added, ‘’But as citizens, we must speak the truth of our lived reality. As our elders say, ‘The yam may be plentiful, but if the pot is empty, the stomach still rumbles’. Today, Nigeria’s pot is not only empty but cracked — and the people remain hungry.

‘’The president cited the multiplication of schools since 1960. Yet in many places, pupils still sit on bare floors and write in dust, while teachers abandon classrooms because their salaries cannot buy food.

“He boasted of more hospitals, but our mothers and fathers still carry candles, syringes, and drugs into wards before treatment can begin. ‘A man who builds many huts without roofs has only built shade for goats’.

‘’On the economy, we were told of bold reforms. But Nigerians know the pain in their pockets. Food prices are higher than the rooftops, transport has swallowed incomes, and many families now eat less than one meal a day.

“If these are the ‘seeds’ of reform, then the fruit is still bitter. When the roof is on fire, it is folly to declare the rain has quenched it.”

Atiku said, ‘’On security, the President saluted the courage of our armed forces and declared victories over terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers. Yet Nigerians still sleep with one eye open, and families still pay ransom as if it were the daily price of garri.

“Villages continue to bury their dead. Most tragically, just this week, we lost Somtochukwu, a young female news anchor with Arise TV, killed in a robbery attack in the early hours of Monday.

‘’Her death is a painful reminder that no one — not even the voices that bring us the news — is safe in today’s Nigeria. “A farmer cannot boast the bush is cleared while weeds still choke his yam.”

First Lady to Nigerians: All Hands Must be on Deck Towards Achieving Greater Nation

First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, said all hands must be on deck to make Nigeria a great nation.

In a message to mark the 65th Independence Anniversary, the first lady charged Nigerians to “let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see; your sacrifice will never be in vain”.

Mrs. Tinubu, in a terse message, stated, “Are you a politician, asking what your country can do for you or a zealous one, asking what you can do for your country?

“If you are the first, then you are a parasite, if the second, then you are an oasis in a desert. Let us all play our part to build a Nigeria we all want to see.  Your sacrifice will never be in vain.

“Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

Zulum: Peace Building Efforts Succeeding

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, congratulated Tinubu and other Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th independence day celebration.

Marking the milestone, Zulum acknowledged the challenges the country had faced over the past six and a half decades, but he stressed that Nigeria had consistently emerged stronger.

He called for continued unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence amongst its citizens.

The governor commended Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North-east, particularly, in Borno State.

Zulum, in a statement personally signed, expressed commitment to providing peace and development to Borno.

He stated, “We will not rest. We will not be complacent.

“We will continue to work, strive more, and fight for a Borno where everyone can dream of a better life, every farmer can till their land, our industries can thrive, and every family can sleep in peace.

“As we join our brothers and sisters across the country to mark the 65th anniversary of our independence, we celebrate the Nigerian nation’s freedom, unity, and resilience.

“But on this day, our reflections in Borno are particularly profound. Our journey has been uniquely tested, yet our hope remains unbroken.”

Abiodun: Nigeria on Course for Greatness

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, said the country was experiencing a rebirth, as Tinubu had demonstrated capacity in making decisions avoided by past leaders.

Abiodun emphasised that the president’s economic blueprint reflected the urgent needs of Nigerians and the global realities of the 21st century.

The governor, who spoke at the 65th National Day celebration held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, said Nigeria would be stronger if citizens worked and cooperated with governments in the course of nation building.

He stated that the task of nation building was enormous, hence, the need for all Nigerians, irrespective of their religion, ethnicity, political affiliations, and social status, to work with governments to realise the objective.

He stated, “The theme of the celebration, ‘All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,’ was timely and instructive for Nigeria to work together for a greater nation.

“Building a stronger Nigeria is not the sole responsibility of the government; it is a collective duty of every Nigerian at home and abroad.”

Adeleke Harps on Rule of Law, Federalism

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 65th independence anniversary, stressing the need for the rule of law and national reform for true federalism.

In a statement issued in Oshogbo, Adeleke described the celebration as a critical point to assess the state of national constitutional democracy, the rule of law, and delivery of good governance.

While applauding the progress recorded so far by Nigeria since her independence, the governor emphasised the need to jealously guide and protect the foundation of national governance through full compliance with the constitution and respect for the rule of law.

He stated, “We have made progress but we can move faster and better. We have recorded a lot of progress but we should continue to protect the foundation of our national existence, the constitution and its interpretation by a truly independent judiciary.

“We must in totality ensure compliance with the rule of law, not rule of the thumb. Judicial process must be respected as it is the only legitimate vehicle to regulate relationships among players in the democratic space and among Nigerians at large.”

Adeleke described democracy as rule-based, saying Nigeria’s democracy would progress faster and good governance would be better delivered when democratic structures are allowed to function without unlawful interference.

The governor granted amnesty to 36 convicts currently serving sentences at the Nigerian Correctional Service facilities in Ilesa and Ile-Ife to mark the anniversary.

Bago Commends Nigerians’ Resilience

Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Bago, praised the resilience of Nigerians in the face of hardships, saying the pains would soon be over.

In an independence day message, Bago said the federal and state governments were implementing policies and programmes that were already yielding fruitful dividends for the general wellbeing of the citizenry. He added that the results of the policies were now putting smiles on the faces of the citizens.

In the message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, the governor observed that the administration’s intervention in agriculture had led to drastic reduction in prices of food items in markets across the state and the country.

Bago renewed his support for the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, and asked the people to be patriotic and avoid tendencies that could derail the country’s democratic match.

Oborevwori: A Stronger Nation Achievable

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their patriotic commitment to realise the desired stronger, more united and prosperous nation, saying the economy has shown visible improvement in recent times.

In his 65th independence anniversary message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon, Oborevwori appealed to Nigerians to throw their weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” as well as the “M.O.R.E Agenda” of his own administration.

He said the development blueprints were both designed to improve the living standards of the people.

He stated that his government invested heavily in massive infrastructure upgrades across Delta State, advancing a power revolution through a renewable energy mix, and creating an enabling environment to attract foreign direct investments.

The efforts, he explained, were aimed at making life more meaningful for Deltans and residents and significantly boosting the state’s economy.

The governor also used the occasion to appeal to all ethnic groups in the state to embrace peace and remain united, stressing that peace is a prerequisite for sustainable development.

Fubara Prays for Sustenance of Democracy

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, urged Nigerians to pray for peace, unity and sustenance of democracy in the country.

All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state also prayed God to continue to guide the country on the path of progress and prosperity.

In his speech yesterday to commemorate the country’s anniversary, Fubara urged Nigerians, including those in diaspora, to continue to strive for the unity of the country.

He congratulated Rivers people, Tinubu, and all Nigerians on the occasion of the 65th independence anniversary.

Fubara stated, “As we celebrate this milestone in Nigeria’s political journey, may we continue to strive for peace and unity among Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

“Providence has entrusted us with the responsibility of navigating the course of the nation and initiating policies to spur development and a better life for the people.”

Yusuf Slams Kano Police Chief, Seeks His Removal over Independence Day Behaviour

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Yusuf, called on Tinubu to remove the Kano State Commissioner of Police for failing to participate in the independence day parade in the state.

Yusuf made the call during his speech at the Nigeria’s 65th independence day celebration at Sani Abacha stadium, Kofar Mata.

The governor was visibly upset when he discovered that the traditional police vehicle was not present to take him round and escort him to the parade arena.

The absence of the police van seemed to cause him and other celebrants discontent, prompting his aides to make another arrangement using his own pilot car to proceed with the event as planned.

In his speech, the governor expressly condemned the action, placing the blame squarely on the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori.

He accused the police commissioner of intentionally withdrawing from the planned celebration at the eleventh hour to undermine him.

Yusuf said, “We condemn this unnational unprofessional attitude of the Commissioner of Police. History will judge his actions. I had to use my own pilot car to go round.

“This is unethical, this is unprofessional and disservice to the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I therefore, wish to seize the opportunity to call on the President, whom we know as no nonsense man. to remove the commissioner of Police from Kano today.

“On behalf of all of them you I am writing a petition against him through the office of the National Security Adviser for onward submission to president of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Ododo Tasks Nigerians on Faith, Unity

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, urged Nigerians to continue to work together in faith, unity, and courage, because the destiny of the country was in the hands of the citizens.

Ododo, in his Independence day message to the people of Kogi State, yesterday, stressed that Nigerians must use the anniversary to renew their love for the country, shun division, and rise above fear and doubt.

He stated, “Today, as we join millions of Nigerians across the world to celebrate the 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence, we are reminded of the sacrifices of our founding fathers, the resilience of our people, and the unshakable hope that continues to drive us as one nation under God.

“Independence Day is more than a date on our calendar; it is a call to patriotism, to unity, and to the shared responsibility of building a nation that guarantees peace, justice, and prosperity for all. Our strength as a people lies in our collective courage to overcome challenges.”

Ododo added, “Even as we celebrate, we do so with heavy hearts over the unfortunate boat mishap in Ibaji Local Government Area, which claimed the lives of our brothers and sisters who were on their way to pursue their daily livelihood.

“This tragedy reminds us of the fragility of life and the duty we owe one another to continually improve safety and support for our people. On behalf of the Government and the good people of Kogi State, I commiserate with the families of the victims, the Ibaji community, and all who are mourning at this time.”

Aiyedatiwa Hails Tinubu’s Bold Reforms

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, commended Tinubu for his bold economic reforms, social re-engineering, and massive infrastructure development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to service, actions and visible results as Nigeria marked its 65th independence anniversary.

Speaking at an event held at Gani Fawehinmi Arcade, Akure, to make the day, the governor joined millions of Nigerians in reflecting on the country’s journey since 1960, describing independence as both a gift of self-rule and the dignity of identity.

He said despite the challenges of civil strife, military rule, and economic hardship, Nigeria had remained united and resilient.

He commended Tinubu for his bold economic reforms across all sectors.

Aiyedatiwa stated, “As a country, we have come far. We have weathered through civil strife and military rule and we stand tall as the largest democracy in Africa. We have made significant contributions to peacekeeping operations across the continent, proving that Nigeria is not only a giant in population but also in responsibility.

“Our economy, though faced with challenges, has produced world renowned entrepreneurs, economists, scientists, artists and sportsmen who have carried the Nigerian flag to the ends of the earth. Above all, we have remained united, over 200 million people of different tongues, faiths and traditions, still bound together under one green and white flag.”

Sani Urges Nigerians to Work Together to Build a Peaceful, Prosperous Nation

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, urged Nigerians to work across communities and faiths to build a peaceful and prosperous nation. Sani stated this yesterday in a statement marking the 65th independence anniversary of Nigeria.

He stated that the country had endured major political, economic, and social challenges since independence, yet it continued to stand “tall, proud, and unbroken”.

Sani called for unity and collective effort to continue to build the country.

He stated, “Our founding fathers’ legacy was built on unity and faith. We must make independence meaningful for every Nigerian. Nigeria’s future is bright, and Kaduna will play a key role.”

The governor reaffirmed the state’s support for Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and called for peace, civic participation, and belief in Nigeria’s potential.

“Together, we are overcoming. Together, we are rising,” he added.

Yahaya Hails Progress, Unity in State, Nation

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, called on citizens to continue to uphold unity and peaceful coexistence, describing both as the bedrock of development and prosperity.

Reflecting on the state’s journey since its creation in 1996, Yahaya paid glowing tribute to past leaders who laid the foundation for its growth.

In a goodwill message to mark the anniversaries of the country and state, the governor stated that while challenges remained, Gombe had recorded remarkable achievements across critical sectors under his administration, guided by the 10-Year Development Plan (DEVAGOM).

In a release issued by Director-General (Press Affairs), Ismaila Uba Misilli, the governor pointed out milestones in education, healthcare, security, infrastructure, agriculture, industrialisation, environmental sustainability, public service reforms, ease of doing business, youth and women empowerment, and regional water projects.

Central to these strides, he said, was DEVAGOM, a carefully crafted roadmap that had steered the state’s transformation.

According to him, Gombe has in recent years bolstered healthcare and education, expanded infrastructure with the completion of rural and township roads, addressed long-standing environmental issues, and opened new economic frontiers through agro-livestock, agribusiness, and industrialisation.

Cross River Joins Nation in Low Key 65th Independence Commemoration

Cross River State Government, yesterday, aligned with the federal government’s directive to mark the country’s 65th independence anniversary without the traditional parade or the fanfare usually associated with it.

Accordingly, what would have been a day of spectacle in the open arenas of the U.J Esuene Stadium, instead, was transformed into a low-key moment.

Governor Bassey Edet Otu, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Linus Obogo, described the day as sacred, a hallowed chapter in Nigeria’s national journey that calls her citizens not only to remembrance but also to renewal.

According to him, the cancellation of the parade did not diminish the meaning of the celebration, but rather elevates it to a higher plane of sober reflection.

Otu noted that at 65, Nigeria stood as a testament to the resilience of her people, their capacity to weather storms and rise from trials stronger and more determined.

The governor urged Cross Riverians, and indeed all Nigerians, to use the anniversary as an opportunity to look back at the path already trodden, draw strength from past victories, and chart a future anchored on unity, peace, and progress.

Senators Hail Nigerians’ Resilience

Southern Senators Forum and Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan of Kogi Central, have paid glowing tributes to the resilience and steadfastness of Nigerians, while calling for unity and renewed commitment to national progress.

Chairman of the Southern Senators Forum, Senator Adetokunbo Abiru (Lagos East), in a goodwill message on behalf of his colleagues, urged citizens to view the nation’s diversity as a source of strength rather than division.

He called on Nigerians to resist divisive tendencies and embrace collective responsibility in building a more united and prosperous country.

Abiru, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, applauded the bold reforms of the Tinubu administration, noting that they are already beginning to yield positive outcomes.

“Today, as we mark the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved nation, I join millions of compatriots in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and enduring spirit. Despite the economic, social, and political hurdles before us, our dear nation remains a beacon of hope on the African continent,” Abiru said.

In a separate Independence Day message, Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan of Kogi Central urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers by recommitting to the ideals of justice, equity, and unity.

She described Independence Day as both a celebration of nationhood and a reminder of the unbreakable spirit of Nigerians, who have weathered decades of challenges with courage and resilience.

Dogara Hails Tinubu’s Transformative Agenda, Reaffirms Hope in Nation’s Destiny

A former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman, Board of the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for his transformative leadership, declaring that the future of the country was anchored on resilience, unity, and bold reforms.

Dogara described Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary as  “a victory of courage over fear, of hope over despair, and of resilience over adversity.”

He said the celebration should not only remind Nigerians of past sacrifices but also serve as a rallying cry to collectively embrace a new era of national renewal.

The former Speaker commended President Tinubu for the audacity to pursue difficult but necessary reforms, noting that the removal of fuel subsidy, stabilisation of the naira, and renewed focus on investment and enterprise were already reshaping the economic landscape.

“These are not ordinary policy adjustments. They are seismic, historic reforms that are dismantling decades of decay and inertia. Though the pain of transition is real, the reward will be even greater.

“Nigerians must therefore summon the patience and endurance of a people destined for greatness, because the signs of renewal are already on the horizon.”

Usman Felicitates With Nigerians

The Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party, Senator Nenadi Usman, has joined millions of Nigerians to celebrate the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement, Usman acknowledged that although Nigeria has witnessed missed opportunities and unfulfilled expectations over the decades, there remains much to celebrate.

She noted that the country’s continued existence as one indivisible nation, despite numerous challenges, is proof of Nigerians’ collective resolve and the strength derived from unity in diversity.

Usman, however, decried the burden of poor leadership at various levels of governance, urging Nigerians not to despair but to remain hopeful for a better future.

“There will surely be joy in the morning. It would be a double tragedy for a people who have endured years of misrule to now surrender hope for their country. Meaningful change will only come when we, as citizens, rise to hold leaders accountable,” she said.

Kalu: At 65, Nigeria Must Face Hard Truths

A former Minister of Finance and Economic Planning, Kalu Idika Kalu has cautioned against premature optimism over claims that the nation has “turned the corner.”

Speaking yesterday on the Morning Show of ARISE News Channels, the former minister provided a critical appraisal of Nigeria’s progress, stressing the need for realism and structural reforms.

While acknowledging the intention behind the president’s reform agenda, ranging from fuel subsidy removal to the floating of the naira, the former minister highlighted deep systemic challenges, particularly poor implementation, lack of strategic planning, and weak institutional capacity.

“I’m not sure I’ve been as enthusiastic about the implementation of the fuel subsidy removal as others. Economics does not exist in isolation. You cannot talk about macroeconomic policy without addressing health, education, infrastructure, and the rule of law,” he said.

Kalu itemised eleven interconnected challenges hindering national development, including insecurity, poor education, weak infrastructure, and absence of institutional accountability.

“Without security, agriculture cannot thrive. Without education, we cannot develop the skilled manpower we desperately need,” he noted.

Address Marginalisation, Ethnic profiling of Igbos, ADC Chieftain Tells Tinubu

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress and 2023 Labour Party Senatorial Candidate for Ebonyi South zone, Hon. Linus Abaa-Okorie, has called on President Bola Tinubu to address what he described as the systemic exclusion, demolitions, and ethnic profiling of Igbos existing even after 65 years of independence.

In a statement in Abakaliki, Abaa-Okorie who was a two term member of  Federal House of Representatives, noted that the marginalisation being suffered by the southeast zone undermined the very principles of federal character and inclusive governance.

He pointed to the concerning patterns in ministerial appointments where the South-East receives only the constitutional minimum representation, while single states in other regions boast multiple full cabinet-rank ministers, as well as infrastructure discrimination that showed the South-West allocated N2.5 trillion for road construction compared to the South-East’s N446 billion.

“In response to President Bola Tinubu’s anniversary address, the administration’s abrupt cancellation of independence celebrations spoke louder than any presidential speech, serving as a silent admission of the profound hardship and discontent gripping the nation,” he said.

While acknowledging the President’s recitation of economic metrics, Okorie emphasised that the figures provided no comfort to the millions of Nigerians facing hyperinflation, hunger, insecurity and unemployment.

FCTA Unveils Two Flagship Health Initiatives

The Federal Capital Territory Administration has launched free distribution of Mother-Baby Kits and the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project as part of activities to mark Nigeria 65th independence anniversary.

FCT Minister of State, Dr Mariya Mahmoud launched the initiatives yesterday at the Asokoro District Hospital in Abuja.

She described the two health flagship programmes as a holistic vision of health that protect mothers and newborns during childbirth while safeguarding families from the dangers of household air pollution and symbolize the administration’s resolve to invest in both immediate healthcare needs and long-term environmental sustainability.

The Mother–Baby kits contained essential medical items and consumables that would support safe labour, delivery and neonatal care for women and babies across the FCT.

“No woman should face childbirth without the tools and support she needs, and no child should begin life without adequate care.

“These kits reflect our deep commitment to maternal and child health and to ensuring that every mother and baby are given the best start possible,” she said.

She also described the Abuja Breathe Fresh Air Project as a bold, forward-looking initiative designed to reduce indoor air pollution in vulnerable households.

Ogun Speaker Urges More Prayers

Speaker of Ogun State House of Assembly,  Hon James Elemide, has felicitated Ogun residents and Nigerians in general on the 65th independence celebration.

He acknowledged  efforts of every Nigerian, especially the forefathers who in one way or the other paid the supreme sacrifice for the independence of the nation as well as keeping it united.

“I write to felicitate with Nigerians, especially the Leader of our party,  Prince Dapo Abiodun, principal officers of Ogun Assembly and other members and all well-meaning Ogun residents on the occasion of our nation’s 65th Independence Celebration.

“It is true that the Independence we now enjoy was fought for and handed over by illustrious Nigerians, whose spirit of selflessness and ideals of faith in this nation led them to even pay the ultimate price,” he said.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Kunle Idowu,  Elemide noted that though the nation has witnessed some challenges, the 65th Independence affords all ,another moment to ponder on the sacrifices and labor of the hero’s past.

CIoD Tasks Govt, Citizens on Governance

The Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria (CIoD) has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s bold economic reforms, while tasking the government and citizens alike to view the celebration of the 65th independence anniversary as a turning point to choose governance over impunity.

This task was delivered yesterday by the President of CIoD, Mr. Adetunji Oyebanji (F.CIoD), in a message titled:”Nigeria at 65: A Nation on the Path to Stardom.”

Oyebanji said, “We acknowledge the bold reform actions taken by the incumbent government upon assumptions in 2023 to confront the petroleum subsidy conundrum, fragmented foreign exchange markets, and embark on electricity reforms in addition to sectoral intervention programmes that are repositioning our economy on a path to recovery for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

“The current economic stability is providing impetus for fresh investments and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians to explore new frontiers, innovate and be globally competitive.

“Let this 65th independence anniversary not only be about years counted, but about a turning point. Let it mark the moment where leaders and citizens alike choose governance over impunity, accountability over corruption, and unity over division,” he said.

According to him, this is not another annual ceremonial event but “another opportunity to reflect on our journey as an independent nation, identify our challenges, assess our gains, and face the future with renewed determination and commitment to sustain the vision of our heroes/heroines and to preserve the cherished legacy of our founding fathers.”

PANDEF Demands Urgent Action on Neglected N’Delta Infrastructure Projects

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary but warned that true national progress could not be achieved without urgent attention to the worsening state of infrastructure in the Niger Delta.

In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Ambassador Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali, PANDEF said the lingering neglect of critical projects such as the East-West Road, the Benin–Auchi Road, the Benin–Warri Road, as well as the revitalisation of the southern ports in Port Harcourt, Calabar, Onne, and Warri, continues to undermine Nigeria’s economic potential.

The group commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts in addressing pressing national challenges and also hailed the governors of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Edo, and Rivers States for their commitment to the development of the South-South.

PANDEF, however, stressed that Nigeria’s 65th anniversary should serve as a moment of sober reflection for governments at all levels to show greater respect for the rule of law, pursue genuine economic reforms, and confront insecurity, poverty, hunger, and youth unemployment.

“Of particular importance is the urgent need to redress the worsening infrastructure decay in the Niger Delta, the region from which the nation’s wealth is derived,” Igali stated.

Reaffirming its commitment to work with both the federal government and Niger Delta states, PANDEF called for renewed dedication and bold action to build a stronger, united, and prosperous Nigeria for present and future generations.

Obi: Nigeria Betrayed by Leadership Failures

National Leader of the factionalised Labour Party, Mr Peter Obi, has said successive leadership failures dashed the dream and vision of Nigeria’s forefathers.

Speaking in a special broadcast yesterday to mark the nation’s 65th Independence Day anniversary, Obi noted that the prediction at independence in 1960, that Nigeria would become an emerging African economic and political power, was unfortunately derailed by leadership failures.

He stated that Nigeria’s founding fathers fought for independence with confidence, passion, and determination to build a prosperous Nigeria that would stand alongside the world’s most advanced nations.

Obi also recalled that Time Magazine had predicted a country that would rise to become a true African superpower that would lead the continent with pride.

These visions, he regretted, were betrayed by leadership that enriches a few and impoverishes the majority of the citizens.

The former Anambra State governor, stated that despite resilience when the country returned to civil democracy in 1999, resulting in Nigeria becoming Africa’s largest economy, it was diminished by the incompetence of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government, over the last decade.

“By the end of 2007, our total debt was about N2.5 trillion, only 10 per cent of GDP, after President Obasanjo’s government secured debt forgiveness of over $30 billion.

“By 2014, Nigeria had become Africa’s largest economy and was primed to achieve middle-income status. In 2015, for the first time, a ruling party was defeated in a presidential election, marking another milestone for our democracy.”

He stated, however, that the picture presently is bleak, as the nation’s total debt stood at about N175 trillion, which he said was nearly 50 per cent of GDP, without any improvement in productive sectors.

“Nigeria has fallen to the fourth-largest economy in Africa, behind South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria. Our democracy is now described as ‘undemocratic’,” Obi said.

Wike: Labour of Our Nation’s Founding Mustn’t be in Vain

Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, has appealed to FCT residents to work collectively and ensure that the labour of the nation’s founding fathers was not in vain.

In a statement, yesterday, he appealed to all residents to continue to live true to the ideals of the heroes of the land.

The minister described the Federal Capital Territory as Nigeria’s symbol of unity and nationhood and urged residents to continue to embody the faith that they can be greater together.

“This is a special occasion when we pay tribute to our founding fathers, who laboured dauntlessly to birth a formidable country which today stands tall in the comity of nations. It is also a celebration of our brotherhood and unity, which have been woven from the loom of our diversity.

“Expectedly, today is one for sober reflection and stock-taking. This is necessary so we can look ahead with renewed hope towards a better future for the Federal Capital Territory and the nation,” Wike said.

He expressed appreciation to residents of the FCT for their unwavering support for the Renewed Hope Agenda of  President Bola Tinubu, which is anchored on economic growth, national security, food security, sustainable development and infrastructure development.

He vowed the unflinching desire of FCTA to continue to work to provide first-class infrastructure and public utilities as demonstrated in the completion and commissioning of strategic roads and public utilities.

Wike said, “It is our firm belief that no city can be said to be a city without a good network of roads, hence our focus on road construction. Other sectors are receiving due attention as well.

“We have reconstructed most of our schools and hospitals and provided much needed equipment and personnel. We have supported our farmers, promoted Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, (MSMEs) and, by so doing, empowered our youths and women.

“I assure you that we will continue to work to reinvigorate the economy and enhance living standards of the good people of FCT.”