Sir:At Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, we celebrate not merely the passing of another year but the enduring resilience of a nation blessed with immense human and natural resources. Despite numerous challenges, Nigerians have continued to demonstrate remarkable courage, creativity, and determination. This anniversary therefore provides an opportunity to reflect on our journey, appreciate our progress, and renew our commitment to the ideals that unite us as one people under one nation.

At this important milestone, I believe Nigerians must become more Nigerian to Nigeria. Too often, we focus on what the country should do for us while paying less attention to what we owe the country. Genuine patriotism is not measured only by speeches, ceremonies, or public displays of national pride. It is reflected in everyday actions, responsible citizenship, and a sincere commitment to advancing the common good above personal interests and temporary gains.

The Holy Qur’an offers a timeless principle for national renewal. Allah says: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” (Qur’an 13:11). This profound verse reminds us that meaningful transformation begins within individuals before it becomes visible in communities, institutions, and nations. Lasting progress emerges when citizens cultivate discipline, integrity, responsibility, and a genuine desire to contribute positively to society and national development.

Nigeria’s future cannot depend solely on governments, political leaders, or public institutions. It also depends on ordinary citizens who choose honesty over corruption, excellence over mediocrity, and service over selfishness.

The teacher inspiring young minds, the entrepreneur creating opportunities, the farmer feeding communities, the civil servant acting with integrity, and the parent nurturing responsible children all contribute significantly to building the nation we desire for generations yet unborn.

As a people, we must also exercise patience, constructive engagement, and faith in the capacity of our nation to overcome present difficulties. In this regard, Nigerians should support and trust the ongoing reform efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while remaining committed to accountability and national progress.

Transformational journeys are oft en challenging at the beginning, but citizens and leaders alike must work together with sincerity, sacrifice, and perseverance to achieve lasting results for future generations.

One of Nigeria’s greatest blessings is its diversity. Across our many ethnic groups, languages, cultures, and religious traditions, we remain connected by a common destiny. Our differences should never become barriers that divide us or weaken our collective resolve. Instead, they should serve as sources of strength, innovation, and mutual understanding. A stronger Nigeria will emerge when diversity is embraced as a national asset rather than viewed as a source of competition.

To be more Nigerian to Nigeria means placing national interest above narrow considerations. It requires us to reject corruption in all its forms, uphold justice, respect the rule of law, and treat one another with fairness and dignity. Nations prosper when citizens choose character over convenience and responsibility over personal advantage. Every act of integrity, however small, contributes to strengthening the moral foundation upon which enduring national development is built.

Our young people deserve a nation that rewards hard work, innovation, and excellence. They represent Nigeria’s greatest asset and its brightest hope for the future. We must therefore create environments that encourage learning, entrepreneurship, creativity, and productive engagement. Beyond identifying national challenges, we must actively support solutions that expand opportunities, strengthen institutions, and empower the next generation to realize its enormous potential and aspirations.

At this stage of our national journey, despair and cynicism cannot be our response to difficulties. While challenges remain, hope must continue to guide our collective vision. Nigeria possesses extraordinary talent, abundant resources, and an entrepreneurial spirit that has earned global recognition. If properly harnessed, these strengths can transform our nation into a model of progress and prosperity, benefiting not only Nigerians but also the wider African continent.

Let there be a renewed sense of purpose and responsibility. Let us recommit ourselves to unity, honesty, hard work, and service. Let us strengthen the bonds that connect us across regions and backgrounds. Let us support policies and initiatives that promote inclusion, justice, and sustainable development. Above all, let us embrace the conviction that a better Nigeria is possible when citizens work together with sincerity and determination.

As we celebrate Nigeria at 66, let us resolve to be Nigerians in conduct, conviction, and contribution. Let us become more Nigerian to Nigeria by investing our energies in nation-building and by placing the welfare of our country at the heart of our aspirations. If each of us accepts this responsibility, our future will be brighter than our past. May Allah bless Nigeria with peace, justice, unity, prosperity, and enduring progress.

Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf is President of Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih (NASFAT).