The activities marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary commenced on Sunday with an inter-denominational church service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja. The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Service Chiefs.
In his address, Akume expressed optimism about the nation’s future under President Bola Tinubu, stating, “All hope is not lost for the country. I envision that under Tinubu, Nigeria will become the most successful and prosperous nation in Africa and the world at large.”
His sentiments were echoed by Most Rev. Michael Akinwale, the Archbishop of Abuja and a member of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, who delivered a sermon filled with hope. “I have a dream that this nation, Nigeria, will be great again. I have a dream that Nigeria will rise again and become a pacesetter for industrialization in Africa,” he proclaimed.
Senate President Akpabio also urged Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful, asserting that the nation’s journey towards prosperity was just beginning. “As we celebrate today, we must acknowledge the challenges we face. Yes, the road ahead may be bumpy, but united in our faith and love for Nigeria, we will prevail,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of believing in the possibility of change, declaring, “Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead of us.”
In Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah called on Nigerians to embrace unity and pursue inclusive national economic development during a special church service at the Government House Chapel. He described the 64th anniversary as a milestone that reflects the resilient spirit of the Nigerian people. “The message for us as a nation is to be united and to focus on inclusive economic development,” Mbah urged, encouraging support for President Tinubu and state leaders to achieve the nation’s economic aspirations.
Mbah highlighted the need for innovative strategies to address the developmental challenges facing the country, noting, “We may be making piecemeal progress, but we need to consider whether this progress is sufficient or if we should think about ways to deploy disruptive innovation.”
Fr. Wilfred Agubuchie, the Diocesan Secretary/Chancellor of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, also emphasized the responsibility of political leaders and all in positions of authority to work for the common good of the people during his homily.
The celebrations culminated in a collective call for unity and hope, as Nigerians reflect on the progress made over the past 64 years and look forward to a brighter future for the nation.
