Akpabio Calls for Unity and Faith as Nigeria Marks 66th Independence Anniversary
Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio has extended his congratulations to Nigerians on the occasion of the country's 66th Independence Anniversary, calling on citizens to embrace love, unity and a renewed belief in Nigeria's future.
In a statement released to journalists in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio, who also chairs the National Assembly, characterised Nigeria as "our destiny, our duty, our future."
He conveyed his felicitations to President Bola Tinubu and to Nigerians both within the country and in the diaspora, noting that the anniversary offered a chance to honour the nation's statehood and the lasting promise of independence.
"On behalf of the Senate, the 10th National Assembly and my family, I extend warm felicitations to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Nigerians everywhere on our 66th Independence Anniversary," Akpabio said.
"Today, we celebrate the gift of nationhood and the enduring promise of our beloved country."
Looking back at Nigeria's path since gaining independence, the Senate President remarked that the hoisting of the national flag 66 years ago represented the aspirations of millions of Nigerians for freedom, self-rule and the capacity to determine the nation's course.
He honoured the country's founding fathers and successive generations of Nigerians whose bravery, toil and sacrifices have contributed to national development.
Akpabio acknowledged that Nigeria's journey has been characterised by "triumphs and trials, seasons of confidence and moments of uncertainty," yet Nigerians have persistently shown resilience in the face of difficulties.
"Yet through them all, Nigerians have continued to strive, create, serve and believe. We celebrate that resilience today: the strength of a people whose hopes have survived every storm," he said.
Akpabio drew attention to the contributions of Nigerians in various fields, observing that the Nigerian spirit is evident among farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and young people chasing their aspirations.
He also cited the country's cultural variety, music, enterprise and the accomplishments of Nigerians abroad as reflections of the national character.
"Our diversity enriches this inheritance. Across languages, cultures and faiths, we belong to one national family," he said.
The Senate President encouraged Nigerians to use the anniversary to reaffirm their dedication to one another, emphasising the value of peace and unity in shaping the country's future.
"Let this anniversary renew our affection for one another and remind us that the green-white-green shelters us all. The peace we preserve together is the foundation of the future we seek," he added.
Akpabio also praised members of the Armed Forces and security agencies for their service to the nation, especially those who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
He expressed appreciation to the families of fallen security personnel, stating that their sacrifices had given "solemn meaning to the freedom and unity we celebrate."
The Senate President further reassured Nigerians that the National Assembly would keep supporting the Tinubu administration's efforts to strengthen the country and enhance citizens' lives.
"As President Tinubu leads our country through this chapter, the National Assembly remains committed to supporting efforts that strengthen our nation and improve our people's lives," he said.
Akpabio called on Nigerians to observe the anniversary with a renewed sense of duty and commitment to the nation.
"Independence is an inheritance renewed by every generation. Let us celebrate with grateful hearts, extend hands of friendship and keep faith with the possibilities before us," he said.
"Our past gives us perspective, our present gives us responsibility, and our future gives us purpose. Together, let us carry its promise into the future."
He ended by wishing Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary and offered prayers for the nation's leaders, its citizens and the continued unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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