Senate President says 27 years of uninterrupted democracy must be protected, calls for unity, sacrifice at National Christian Centre
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has expressed strong confidence in the future of Nigeria as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, calling on citizens to keep faith with the nation despite current challenges.
Akpabio made the call on Sunday at the Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
Delivering a message titled “Keeping Faith with Nigeria,” the Senate President urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country or in their collective ability to build a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
“As we mark 66 years of Nigeria’s independence, I remain confident in the future of our great nation. Despite the challenges we face, we must never lose faith in our country or in our collective ability to build a peaceful, united and prosperous nation,” Akpabio said.
He charged Nigerians, particularly leaders and parents, to be conscious of the legacy they leave for the next generation, stressing that the nation’s future should not be defined by tribalism, bitterness and division.
“Our children are looking up to us. The footprints we leave behind must not be those of tribalism, bitterness or division, but of courage, unity, sacrifice and service to our nation,” he stated.
The Senate President drew his message from the Book of Zechariah, asking Nigerians to reflect on the question, “What seest thou?” beyond the present difficulties.
“Beyond the difficulties of today, what do we see for Nigeria? I see a peaceful Nigeria. I see a prosperous Nigeria. I see a nation where our diversity remains a source of strength and where every Nigerian can aspare to a better future,” Akpabio declared.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule as a major democratic milestone that must be protected and strengthened.
“For 27 years, Nigeria has enjoyed uninterrupted civilian rule. This is an achievement for which we must thank God, but also a responsibility we must continue to uphold. Our democracy must be strengthened by credible elections, strong institutions and leadership that remains accountable to the people,” he said.
Akpabio commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for embarking on bold reforms aimed at repositioning the economy, while acknowledging the hardship the reforms have imposed on many families.
“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, our nation has embarked on reforms requiring difficult decisions and sacrifice. We recognise the burden many Nigerian families have borne. At the same time, we must remain focused on ensuring that these reforms ultimately translate into greater opportunities, economic stability and improved lives for our people,” he noted.
The Senate President urged Nigerians to reject division and bitterness as the country approaches another Independence Day, calling for renewed commitment to national unity and shared responsibility.
“As we approach another Independence Day, let us reject division and bitterness. Let us be awakened once again to the needs of our neighbours and to the responsibility we all share in building the Nigeria we desire,” Akpabio said.
He expressed optimism that with faith in God and collective resolve, Nigeria would overcome its current challenges and bequeath a stronger and more prosperous nation to future generations.
“With God on our side and with our collective resolve, I believe we can overcome the challenges before us and leave behind a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous nation for generations to come. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.
The Inter-Denominational Church Service is part of activities lined up by the Federal Government to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1st.
