Independence: Akpabio sees brightest days ahead

Sanwo-Olu, Oborevwori urge citizens to persevere, act positive

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful, assuring them that the country’s best days are ahead.

Akpabio made these remarks during the Inter-Denominational Church Service at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

Meanwhile, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said Nigerians must join in rebuilding the country by daily doing what is right and appropriate, as the task of rebuilding the country cannot be left to those in government alone.

His Delta State counterpart, Sheriff Oborevwori, urged Nigerians not to be overwhelmed by the present economic challenges bedevilling the nation, but to persevere.

Addressing the Abuja congregation, Akpabio acknowledged the country’s challenges but emphasised the importance of optimism and resilience as the nation moves forward.

He said: “Yes, the road ahead may be bumpy. Yes, there will be setbacks. But together, united in our faith and love for Nigeria, we will prevail. Our journey to a prosperous nation is just beginning and I urge each of you to be patient, hopeful and to believe that change is not only possible but inevitable.

“Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead of us. Together, with unwavering belief, we will build a nation that our children and generations to come will be proud of.”

Akpabio acknowledged the indomitable spirit of Nigerians to withstand and overcome myriad challenges from the earliest struggles for Independence till date.

He said President Bola Tinubu’s leadership gave the nation hope that “Nigeria can and will be better” adding that Tinubu’s courage and dedication to Nigeria’s advancement “is indeed inspirational.”

DURING the 64th National Independence Day Celebration Service with the theme, ‘Rebuilders of Broken Foundations’ at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Lagos, Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff, Sam Egube, acknowledged God’s continued hands in the affairs of Nigeria.

He noted that the theme could not be timelier as it speaks of a people who would rise to build what had been broken.

“We must do it in our corridors. We must rise as citizens committed to integrity and service, and must be willing to contribute to the healing of our nation positively. Our daily efforts must foster a spirit of unity and focus on our common goal of a greater nation.

“Every citizen must recognise their roles in shaping the country for the better.”

Sanwo-Olu said his administration “remains committed” to addressing the needs of the people in education, health, infrastructure and other sectors.

OBOREVWORI urged Nigerians to remain optimistic, noting that “tough times don’t last, but tough people do” by effectively surmounting the challenges facing them.

He made the call at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service, yesterday, at the Anglican Cathedral Church of St. Peters, Asaba, to mark the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary.

The governor, who paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers of the country, urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and united, adding that a new phase of prosperity, peace, unity and progress would soon envelop the country.

The governor said: “It goes without saying that there is hunger and despair in the land because of the high cost of living caused by inflation. There are not enough words to describe the pain and suffering many people are going through because of the ongoing fiscal and economic reforms.

“However, I want to say that these, too, shall pass. Every problem has an expiry date, and this will not be an exception.”

Earlier, the Bishop of Asaba, Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev’d Kingsley Obuh, in his sermon entitled ‘In All Things, Give Thanks’, said it was difficult to give thanks in the present situation of the country.

He, however, urged Nigerians not to be discouraged, but to give thanks to God because “it is the will of God for all men.”