The Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, on Thursday, urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country, despite the challenges confronting the nation.

She said the October 1 anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its achievements and challenges, and renew their commitment to ensuring that every citizen has a sense of belonging.

Omidiran disclosed this in her Independence Day message to Nigerians as the country marked its 66th anniversary, urging citizens and leaders to strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building an inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.

According to the FCC Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.

Omidiran said: “Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire.”

She called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.

She also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.

Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.

She added, “As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by the government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all.

“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

In a statement by the commission’s spokesperson, Ademola Lawrence, the FCC wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Independence Anniversary and prayed for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress in the country.