Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on Nigerians to make the necessary sacrifices, demonstrate patriotism and uphold accountability in the collective effort to build a nation that reflects the aspirations of its citizens.

Oborevwori made the call on Sunday at the 66th Independence Thanksgiving Service held at Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road, Asaba, Delta State, where he charged present and future generations to sustain the virtues of sacrifice, courage, patriotism and resilience upon which the nation’s independence was achieved.

The Governor, while paying tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers for their sacrifices and contributions to the country’s independence, urged citizens to demonstrate their love for the nation by continuously praying for its peace, stability and prosperity.

He particularly stressed the importance of the Church in the nation’s development, saying continued prayers and intercession remained critical to sustaining peace and moving Nigeria forward.

According to him, prayer for the nation was not merely a religious obligation but a critical investment in the country’s future.

“Praying for the nation is a powerful investment that pays huge dividends. I urge us, therefore, not to relent in the place of prayer, because men ought always to pray and not to faint.”

Oborevwori also used the occasion to remind politicians, civil servants and other public officials that political appointments and positions of authority were held in trust for the Nigerian people and should be exercised with responsibility, integrity and commitment to the common good.

He said public service must not be reduced to personal or family interests, stressing that every position of authority imposed a duty of service and accountability on the holder.

“At this juncture, I want to remind those of us in public service, politicians and civil servants alike, to make service to the people our number one priority. After all, it is called public service.

“Whether you are a civil servant or a politician, whether you are appointed or elected, you are serving the people. Every position you hold is held in trust for the people, not just for you and your immediate family,” the Governor said.

He further reminded public officials that they would ultimately give an account of their stewardship before God, urging them to discharge their responsibilities with wisdom, integrity and a firm commitment to the welfare of the people.

The Governor said Nigeria’s 66 years of independence provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s journey, appreciate its achievements and confront the challenges that remained before the nation.

He expressed gratitude to God for the progress recorded since independence, particularly the country’s democratic experience.

According to him, Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999 represented an important achievement worthy of celebration, notwithstanding the challenges encountered along the way.

“On May 29 this year, we celebrated 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. That is something to celebrate and thank God for. Yes, there have been bumps and twists along the way, but overall, we are making steady progress, and the future remains promising and exciting,” he said.

Oborevwori also emphasised the importance of wisdom in governance and leadership, urging those entrusted with public responsibilities to deploy their positions in ways that would strengthen the country and improve the lives of citizens.

He said the Church had a major role to play in sustaining peace and stability, particularly through persistent prayers for the nation and its leaders.

Making reference to Jeremiah 29:7, which urges believers to “seek the peace of the city” and pray for it, the Governor said the peace enjoyed by individuals and communities was inseparable from the peace and security of the wider nation.

Earlier, the Presiding Pastor of Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road Branch, Asaba, Pastor Samuel Johns, called on Nigerians to remain committed to the country, stressing that nation-building required faith, patriotism, sacrifice and collective responsibility.

Johns expressed optimism that Nigeria was experiencing an awakening capable of unlocking the country’s enormous potential and restoring its place among nations.

He identified civic responsibility, sacrifice, meaningful contribution to society, love for the country and positive impact on local communities as critical obligations of citizens.