Governors in the southwest region, yesterday, stressed the need for Nigerians to unite for the growth and progress of the country, irrespective of their religious differences and ethnic nationalities.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, while speaking on ‘Unity and Rebuilding’, during the 65th anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s Independence, which was held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasigba, Ibadan, was one of the governors who reiterated this stance.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, said that Nigerians must be united and keep hope alive to achieve the best for the country.
He, however, charged all Nigerians to suppress tendencies that divide the nation and focus on things that lift it up, noting that the country must take a cue from India and China, which economies are thriving despite their population and many differences.
Makinde congratulated the people of Oyo State and Nigerians for the opportunity to witness another Independence Day celebration, noting that the country still has many years ahead to rebuild and correct past mistakes.
Similarly, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, yesterday, said that all hands must be on deck for a greater nation that people are yearning for.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke yesterday during the nation’s 65th Independence Day celebration, held at the Lagos House, Marina, said that the government and the people must find and have faith in each other for a better Nigeria.
“As a government, we are acutely tuned to the needs and welfare of our citizens and we are working ceaselessly to meet their aspirations.
“The inception of this administration brought the THEMES agenda, which, in collaboration with you all, we were able to implement while working out areas that need improvement,” he said.
ALSO, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described his administration’s efforts in infrastructural development and social projects as vital “lifelines” designed to reconnect communities, revive the economy, and secure the state’s future.
He stated this yesterday, during the commemoration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade.
He, therefore, emphasised that the state is witnessing a “remarkable transformation.”
Aiyedatiwa promised that the state would experience even greater progress in the coming months, adding that various ongoing road projects are criss-crossing the state.
Meanwhile, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, said the celebration was a recognition of the struggles of Nigeria’s forebearers and an opportunity to highlight the administration’s achievements.
Fasoranti said: “In recent times, the state has witnessed unprecedented socio-economic revival and restoration. The governor has deliberately provided an ambience that opened up the industrial and economic frontiers of development in the state, thus strategically placing Ondo State on the world map.”
