Nigeria of our dream still realisable, says Abiodun
President Bola Tinubu, represented by President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, yesterday, led dignitaries to an inter-denominational church service at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.
 
The solemn service brought together government officials, diplomats, religious leaders and eminent Nigerians for prayers, thanksgiving and renewed calls for unity and collective responsibility in building the nation.
 
In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appealed for sustained prayers for leaders at all levels, stressing that governance requires the collective support of the people for better impact, as collective unity and reliance on God remain vital for progress.
 
On his part, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State said the dreams of the founding fathers of Nigeria, where no man is oppressed, opportunities abound for all, and the commonwealth is shared equitably, “are still realisable” if Nigerians continue to hold fast to patriotism, integrity, service and shared responsibility.
 
In his vote of thanks at the Abuja service, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, urged citizens to rally behind ongoing reforms, noting governance is a shared duty between leaders and the people.
 
“Under President Tinubu, our nation is undergoing bold reforms aimed not at temporary relief but at lasting transformation,” Akume said. “The sacrifices Nigerians are making today are paving the way for economic renewal, stronger institutions and improved conditions across food, energy, healthcare, education, jobs and infrastructure.”
 
He called for patience and constructive engagement, asserting that Nigeria’s resilience had always been stronger than its challenges.
 
In his sermon, Bishop Francis Wale Oke of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries declared that Nigeria could emerge as a global force if citizens embraced unity. 
 
“We can be more united, better united. We can become, if you permit me, the United States of Nigeria and be a great force to reckon with in the world,” he said.
 
Sanwo-Olu, represented at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, by his Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde, commended the cordiality and harmony among Lagosians.
 
“Government alone cannot do the job. We need your prayers, partnership and understanding to move Nigeria and Lagos forward,” he said.
 
Preaching at the service, District Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church, Lekki Phase 1, Dr Paul Fadayini, described the theme of the anniversary, ‘A Rising Nation’, as both prophetic and spiritually significant. Drawing inspiration from Micah 7:8, he charged Nigerians to remain steadfast in hope and thanksgiving to God despite prevailing challenges.
 
Governor Abiodun said with the country celebrating its 65 years of Independence, Nigerians should remember that “the true measure of freedom lies in how it is used” to serve, build and bless others.
 
The governor stated this during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark the 65th National Day Celebration held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta.
 
Represented by his Deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor noted that Nigerians must summon the courage to move beyond despair into a future bright with possibilities.
 
In his sermon on the topic ‘A New Nigeria is Possible, the Time is Now’, the Bishop of Awori Anglican Diocese, Rev (Dr) Johnson Akintomide, said the gathering of the saints signifies hope, gratitude and prayer to God who made the 65th celebration possible.