morganABLE politics/Governance
They described the Independence Day celebration as a moment for reflection on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, a time to honour the sacrifices of the founding fathers and an opportunity to rekindle hope in the nation’s future.
KaNo—
Governors across the country on Thursday called for unity, peaceful coexistence and renewed commitment to nation-building as Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary, even as many citizens continued to grapple with economic hardship, insecurity and unemployment.
In separate messages to commemorate the anniversary, the state leaders urged Nigerians to shun violence, criminality and divisive tendencies, stressing that only collective efforts and shared responsibility could address the country’s pressing socioeconomic challenges.
They described the Independence Day celebration as a moment for reflection on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, a time to honour the sacrifices of the founding fathers and an opportunity to rekindle hope in the nation’s future.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, in his Independence Day message, urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, united and prayerful for leaders at all levels.
He said the anniversary represented “a moment of pride, reflection and renewed hope for our great nation,” noting that the resilience of Nigerians in the face of adversity remained a source of strength for the country.
According to him, citizens should continue to uphold peace, productivity and national unity while drawing inspiration from the sacrifices of past leaders.
Highlighting the achievements of his administration, Idris said Kebbi State had made strides in workers’ welfare, education, healthcare, infrastructure and agriculture.
He noted that the state now pays a N75,000 minimum wage and has maintained regular payment of salaries and pensions.
The governor also disclosed that his administration had cleared over N10bn in gratuities, death benefits and arrears, adding that N2.11bn was recently released to settle entitlements for 772 retirees and bereaved families.
On education, Idris said more than 2,000 schools had been constructed, renovated and furnished, while 2,000 professional teachers were recruited to improve learning outcomes and end casualisation in the teaching profession.
He added that the state government revitalised 22 general hospitals, 179 primary healthcare centres and 63 dispensaries, alongside the recruitment of over 2,200 health workers.
The governor further listed infrastructure projects, including the dualisation of 88 roads, construction of a new state secretariat and development of an ultra-modern central motor park.
In the agriculture sector, Idris said Kebbi secured $45bn in African Development Bank financing for a Special Agro-Processing Zone in Argungu, with transformation centres in Kalgo and Zuru.
He added that under the Kaura Cares Livelihood Programme, the government disbursed N100,000 each to 65,000 citizens, supported 3,200 persons with disabilities and empowered women and youth entrepreneurs.
In Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara emphasised the importance of peace and unity, describing them as essential pillars for development.
In a goodwill message issued by his media aide, Onwuka Nzeshi, the governor said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on their collective journey and renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Fubara noted that Rivers State, often described as the “treasure base of the nation,” thrives on diversity and harmony among its people.
He warned that no meaningful development could occur in an environment characterised by division and political hostility.
“We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State,” the governor said.
He stressed that his administration had prioritised peace as a cornerstone of governance, adding that the relative calm in the state had enabled the attraction of investments and execution of projects across the three senatorial districts.
Meanwhile, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates and commuted the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment as part of activities marking the Independence Anniversary.
The governor announced the decision in a goodwill message, describing the occasion as a significant moment for reflection, celebration and renewed faith in Nigeria’s unity and progress.
Those whose death sentences were commuted include Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi, while several others were granted full pardon.
Mutfwang urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the founding fathers by preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.
He said Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build an inclusive society where everyone has a sense of belonging.
The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for efforts to sustain national unity and promote economic development, noting the importance of collective responsibility in building a stronger nation.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring peace, security, justice and inclusive development in Plateau State.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde called on Nigerians to remain united despite current challenges and to appreciate the sacrifices of the country’s founding heroes.
Makinde, who spoke at the Independence Anniversary celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Ibadan, said the nation’s freedom was earned through the struggles and sacrifices of its founding fathers.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, the governor emphasised the need for citizens to demonstrate responsibility and commitment to nation-building.
He spoke on the theme, “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing,” stressing the importance of collective action in addressing security challenges.
“We must appreciate our heroes past for what they did to achieve and attain independence in 1960. Independence was earned through their sacrifices and countless struggles,” he said.
Makinde also highlighted achievements of his administration across sectors such as education, security, sports, economy and infrastructure, noting that the state had recorded significant progress.
Across the messages, a common theme emerged: the need for unity, peace and collective effort in overcoming Nigeria’s challenges.
While the governors highlighted achievements within their respective states, they also acknowledged the difficulties faced by citizens, including rising cost of living, unemployment and insecurity.
They urged Nigerians to remain steadfast, reject divisive tendencies and work together to build a more prosperous and stable nation.
As the country marks 66 years of independence, the calls for unity underscore the growing recognition that national cohesion remains critical to addressing the complex challenges confronting Africa’s most populous nation.
