Governors and other prominent Nigerians have called for unity, peace, responsible citizenship and greater accountability as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, with some highlighting achievements in their states and others drawing attention to persistent challenges facing the nation.
The leaders, in separate Independence Day messages on Thursday, urged Nigerians to reject violence, criminality, hate speech and division, while calling for collective efforts to address insecurity, unemployment, poverty and other socioeconomic challenges.
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, in an Independence Day message, urged Nigerians to keep hope alive, remain united and continue to pray for leaders at all levels.
He described the anniversary as a period for national pride, sober reflection and renewed hope.
The governor said, “Independence Anniversary is a moment of pride, reflection and renewed hope for our great nation.”
He said Nigerians should honour the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers while drawing strength from the resilience of citizens who continue to uphold peace, productivity and national unity.
Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Idris said Kebbi now pays a N75,000 minimum wage, while salaries and pensions are paid regularly.
He also said the government had cleared more than N10bn in gratuities, death benefits and arrears, with N2.11bn recently released to settle entitlements involving 772 retirees and bereaved families.
On education, the governor said more than 2,000 schools had been constructed, renovated and furnished, while 2,000 professional teachers were recruited and casualisation in the teaching profession ended.
He added that 22 general hospitals, 179 primary healthcare centres and 63 dispensaries had been revitalised, alongside the recruitment of more than 2,200 health workers.
Idris also listed infrastructure projects, including the dualisation of 88 roads, construction of the new state secretariat and an ultra-modern central motor park.
On agriculture and livelihoods, the governor said Kebbi secured $45bn in African Development Bank financing for the Special Agro-Processing Zone in Argungu, with transformation centres in Kalgo and Zuru.
“Through the Kaura Cares Livelihood Programme, we disbursed N100,000 each to 65,000 citizens, supported 3,200 persons with disabilities and empowered women and youth entrepreneurs,” he said.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, called on the people of the state to embrace peace and unity, describing them as indispensable pillars for the socioeconomic development of any society.
In a goodwill message to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Fubara said the celebration offered an opportunity for the people to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since 1960 and to renew their commitment to peaceful coexistence.
The governor’s message was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by his media aide, Onwuka Nzeshi, and sent to newsmen.
The governor noted that Rivers State, as the “treasure base of the nation” and a melting pot of diverse ethnic nationalities, has always thrived when its people lived in harmony.
He said no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of rancour, division and political hostility.
According to him, while political differences are normal in a democracy, they must never be allowed to undermine the collective interest of the state.
“We may disagree as politicians, but we must never disagree on the peace and progress of Rivers State,” he stated.
Fubara stressed that since assumption of office, his administration has anchored its governance philosophy on peace, describing it as the most invaluable infrastructure.
He said the relative peace enjoyed in the state today has made it possible for his government to attract investments and execute projects across the three senatorial districts.
Plateau pardons 130
As part of activities marking the 66th Independence Anniversary, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State granted absolute pardon to 130 inmates and commuted the death sentences of four others to life imprisonment.
Mutfwang announced the pardon on Thursday while felicitating with Plateau citizens and Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora on the 66th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria, October 1, 2026.
The four inmates whose death sentences were commuted to life imprisonment are Zuhumnan Musa, Jeremiah Aese, Pam Lang and Thoma Danboyi.
Others granted absolute pardon include Kamshine Gomerep, Maju Sajen, Jan Thomas, Gody Victor, Imran Maikasuwa, Biplang Emmanuel, Peace Sunday, Salisu Usman, Geoffrey John, Shwarpo Luka, among others.
In a goodwill message signed by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Dr Gyang Bere, the governor described the occasion as “a significant moment for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence, honour the sacrifices of past leaders, acknowledge the challenges confronting the nation, celebrate its achievements and renew their collective faith in the promise of a stronger, united and prosperous Nigeria.”
He urged Nigerians to honour the legacy of the founding fathers by preserving the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria.
Mutfwang reaffirmed that “Nigeria’s strength lies in the collective determination of its citizens to rise above differences and build a nation in which every citizen has a sense of belonging and an opportunity to fulfil his or her aspirations.”
He also acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Tinubu in sustaining the unity and stability of the country and in advancing the Nigerian project, commending the President’s “continued emphasis on national cohesion, peace, economic development and the collective responsibility of Nigerians to build a stronger nation.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the governor said he remained committed “to building a Plateau State where citizens can pursue their aspirations in an atmosphere of peace, security, justice and inclusive development.”
Makinde preaches unity
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, called on citizens to appreciate the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding heroes and remain united in the face of current challenges, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
The governor made the call during the Independence Anniversary celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Speaking on the theme “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing,” Makinde, represented by the Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, noted that Nigeria’s independence in 1960 was earned through the sacrifices and relentless struggles of the nation’s founding fathers.
He stressed that the freedom enjoyed today is a product of their labour and should inspire every citizen to be responsible and committed to nation-building.
The governor said: “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.”
Recounting the achievements of his administration, Makinde stated that Oyo State had recorded remarkable progress across all sectors, including education, security, sports, economy, and infrastructure.
“Since 2019, when this administration was elected, we have achieved feats and progress in all spheres of life: education, security, sports, business, and infrastructure.
“In terms of security, we have put in place a robust arrangement through the establishment of the Amotekun Corps, which works collaboratively with other security agencies to maintain peace in Oyo State.
“On infrastructure, we have spread development across the five zones of Oyo State: Oke-Ogun 1 and 2, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa, and Ibadan. People attest to the fact that this administration has done a good job in expanding infrastructure: education facilities, road networks, Light Up Oyo State, hospitals, and more.”
Okpebholo declares safety
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, assured residents that his administration will not relent in protecting lives and property.
In a message by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, to mark the day, the governor said security remained his first responsibility, noting that farming, trade, investment and every other economic activity depend on peace.
“We have worked hard to make Edo safer. We are rebuilding our roads, upgrading our schools and hospitals, and creating opportunities for our teeming youths.
“The safety of every Edo citizen, in the city and in the village, remains my first duty,” he said.
Okpebholo said his administration would continue to work with all security agencies, as well as traditional rulers and community leaders as key partners given their closeness to the people and their knowledge of local terrain.
“Edo State is not a safe place for criminals,” the governor warned, cautioning those who may attempt to disturb the peace of the state.
Beyond security, Okpebholo said his government was pursuing improvements in healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and education under the SHINE Agenda.
He cited the reopening of several hospitals across the state that had been shut for years, some for close to two decades, and the enrolment of more than 600,000 residents in the Edo State Health Insurance Scheme.
The governor noted that salaries were being paid regularly and that Edo remained one of the few states implementing the N75,000 minimum wage.
Also, the Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and commit to building a stronger, united, and prosperous nation.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Friday Aghedo, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, the deputy governor described October 1 as a reminder of the courage and sacrifices of the generation that secured Nigeria’s independence in 1960.
He said Nigeria had demonstrated remarkable resilience despite its challenges, adding that its greatest strength remained its people and diversity.
He urged Nigerians to recommit to the ideals of unity, peace, justice, democracy and shared prosperity.
Yusuf preaches peace
Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, appealed to the people of the state to shun acts capable of breaching the existing peace and stability of the state as the 2027 general elections draw nearer.
Yusuf made the appeal in his address on the occasion of the 66th Independence Anniversary held at the Sani Abacha Indoor Stadium on Thursday.
He also called on the residents of the state to continue to embrace peace, unity, and mutual respect for the economic growth and development of the state.
He said, “As the 2027 general election is fast approaching, I also appeal to you all to continue to uphold peace, unity, and mutual respect. Let us shun violence and anything that may threaten the peace and stability of our dear state.”
The governor further urged citizens of the state and Nigerians at large to continue to pray for a peaceful, free, fair, and credible election in the country.
“I must also seize this opportunity to appreciate all our security agencies for their tireless efforts in maintaining peace and protecting the lives and property of our people at all times.
“I urge our people to reject violence, division, intolerance and criminality, and to embrace peace, lawful enterprise and responsible citizenship,” he said.
“We have also sustained grassroots security coordination and increased attention to local government areas including Tsanyawa, Ghari, Gwarzo, Shanono, Bagwai, Rogo, Kiru/Bebeji, Karaye, Tudun Wada/Doguwa and other communities facing security challenges, with the objective of protecting lives, restoring confidence and enabling residents to return to their farms and normal economic activities.”
Aliyu seeks collaboration
Sokoto State Governor Ahmed Aliyu has called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to tackle banditry and other forms of criminality threatening parts of the country.
Aliyu made the call in his Independence Day message to the people of Sokoto State on Thursday, commending the Federal Government for its support in the fight against banditry in Sokoto and stressing sustained cooperation between both levels of government to restore lasting peace.
“There is a strong synergy between the Sokoto State Government and the Federal Government in our collective commitment towards protecting the lives and property of our people,” Aliyu said.
He expressed optimism that continued collaboration would help bring insecurity in the state to an end.
Aliyu said his administration had provided logistics and equipment to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies.
According to him, the state government has procured more than 200 patrol vehicles, two emirate bulletproof vehicles, 100 Buffalo APCs, 200 motorcycles, 3,200 security hardware, 2,000 bulletproof vests and 200 night-vision goggles since the inception of his administration.
He added that the government also provided 100 thermal-vision scopes and other security gadgets, facilitated the full operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Sokoto and upgraded the DSS tracker from 4G to 5G technology.
The governor also cited the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps, for which 40 Hilux vans and 700 motorcycles were procured.
Other measures, he said, included facilitating the establishment of a military barracks in Illela and a Police Mobile Barracks at Tara Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
Aliyu reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to ending banditry and urged citizens to support government efforts to restore peace across the state.
He said Nigeria had experienced “many ups and downs” since independence but had also recorded significant achievements over the years.
AbdulRazaq preaches peace
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, urged Nigerians to reject violence, criminality and hate speech and called for greater commitment to peace, collective security and national development as a country.
In a statement issued by his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola, the governor made the call in Ilorin on Thursday to mark Nigeria’s Independence Day.
AbdulRazaq, while congratulating President Tinubu and Nigerians at home and abroad, said the anniversary should provide an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s resilience, diversity and shared identity, as well as renew their commitment to building the Nigeria they desire.
He said Nigerians had continued to demonstrate courage, enterprise, creativity and determination despite the challenges confronting the country, describing the qualities as important national assets.
“Independence Day is a time to celebrate our resilience, diversity and shared identity, but also to renew our commitment to building the Nigeria we desire.
“Despite our challenges, Nigerians continue to demonstrate courage, enterprise, creativity and determination—our greatest national assets,” he said.
The governor consequently urged citizens to shun violence, criminality and hate speech while embracing peace and collective security.
AbdulRazaq said the state government had continued to strengthen agricultural value chains and improve farmers’ livelihoods through interventions including the Kwara State Agro-Processing, Agricultural Productivity Enhancement and Livelihood Improvement Support Project and the Livestock Productivity and Resilience Support Project.
According to him, the interventions had expanded opportunities for more than 100,000 farmers, while supporting agro-logistics hubs, rural roads and mechanisation.
On healthcare, the governor said Kwara had recorded what he described as Nigeria’s lowest under-five mortality rate, estimated at 14 deaths per 1,000 live births.
Also present were a representative of the Commander of the 9 Division, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General P.U. Nnaji; heads of paramilitary organisations and students from selected schools.
Otti laments struggles
Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, says Nigeria is still bedevilled by unlimited problems.
In his 2026 Independence Day Broadcast titled, “Citizenship, Freedom and Vigilance,” Otti said the perennial struggles with basic infrastructure, poverty, unemployment, low factor utilisation, limited access to education and healthcare, and insecurity, especially in the last two decades, should be a source of concern for every patriotic Nigerian for the reason that several less-endowed nations have achieved far-superior results on these fronts.
The agony of seeing millions of young people helplessly abandon the homeland in pursuit of opportunities for self-fulfilment elsewhere, he said, does not tell a good story of Nigeria’s progress after 66 long years of independence, stating, “there are grounds for disaffection, but disappointment need not lead to despair.”
According to him, “if there is one thing we have learnt in the years following October 1, 1960, it is the unassailable truth that we cannot make progress by excluding ourselves from important conversations of national development.
“We may have multiple points of genuine grievances, but in the final analysis, when frustrations are not rightly channelled into efforts at finding solutions, things would continue to deteriorate as we have seen in multiple instances.
“The real act of courage, therefore, is not to take up arms against equally hapless compatriots, resort to endless criticisms or perhaps resign to indifference,” adding, “the patriotic thing to do is to boldly confront the situation headlong using every legitimate tool available to us, refusing any temptation to surrender until we achieve the outcomes that we seek.”
Though Nigeria has remained on the democratic course in the last 27 years, Otti said the country could not get it right on development when you compromise on leadership.
Ododo pardons 101
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ododo, has granted pardon and other forms of executive clemency to 101 inmates and convicts as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Ododo announced the decision in his Independence Day address to the people of Kogi State on Thursday, saying the exercise was anchored on the constitutional prerogative of mercy and guided by considerations of rehabilitation, remorse, humanitarian circumstances, public interest and justice.
The governor said the decision was particularly significant because the country’s Independence anniversary represents freedom, responsibility and the enduring hope that future generations can build a better society.
He said he inaugurated the Kogi State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy on September 2, 2026, in accordance with the constitutional framework governing the exercise of the prerogative of mercy.
According to him, the council, which was chaired by the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Muizudeen Abdullahi (SAN), reviewed the relevant records of the cases before it, considered representations made on behalf of inmates and convicts, examined correctional reports and visited correctional centres across the state, including Koton Karfe, Kabba, Dekina, Ankpa, Idah and Okene.
He said 94 beneficiaries were granted mercy on grounds including old age, medical conditions, good conduct, rehabilitation, remorsefulness and compassionate considerations, while seven others received remission of sentence.
Among those granted mercy on old-age and medical grounds were Lamidi Mohammed Garuba, aged 91; Ajagbonna Olufemi David, aged 72; Yakubu Atabo; Chief Umane Okeme; Saidu Atuluku Yunusa; Hilary Chike Nwaeze; Ebenezer Mopah; Abdullahi Jibril; and Usman Ismaila.
The seven beneficiaries whose sentences were remitted are Tunde Adura, Olusaye Moses Abayomi, Abu Mowde, Zakariyau Baba, Michael Ojonugwa, Rami Sadiq and Salawudeen Sanusi.
‘Stop politicising tragedies’
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has urged Nigerians to stop politicising tragedies, saying the suffering of victims and grieving families should attract compassion rather than political gain.
Oborevwori stated this in his Independence Day message, adding that, “When people suffer loss or face misfortune, our first response should be empathy and support, not political advantage. Behind every tragedy are real people and families who are grieving. Their pain deserves our respect and compassion.”
The governor also called on Deltans and Nigerians to reject division, embrace dialogue and put the national interest above political and other narrow interests.
He acknowledged the challenges Nigeria had faced since independence, including the civil war, economic difficulties and political uncertainty, but said the country had continued to endure.
“The challenges before us are real, but so is our capacity to overcome them. If we remain united, work hard, act responsibly and put the national interest above narrow considerations, we will build the Nigeria we desire,” Oborevwori said.
He said his administration would continue to focus on infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic opportunities for youths, women, farmers and artisans.
“At the heart of our agenda is inclusive governance. We are determined to ensure that no community, ethnic group, gender or generation is left behind,” he said.
Sule lists gains
Governor Abdullahi Sule said Nasarawa State has so far fulfilled the vision of its founding fathers, 30 years after creation.
He also described Nigeria’s journey of 66 years as a story of resilience, sacrifice, perseverance and hope.
Speaking on Thursday in Lafia, the governor said leadership is a trust, not a position, and thanked the people for the privilege to serve since 2019.
He congratulated Nigerians on 66 years of nationhood, recalling that the country attained independence on October 1, 1960, and has remained united despite political instability, economic difficulties, civil conflict and insecurity.
He paid tribute to patriots whose sacrifices made freedom possible and urged Nigerians to heed President Bola Tinubu’s call for unity of purpose and shared responsibility in nation-building.
On Nasarawa State, Sule traced the agitation for its creation to 1980 during the Second Republic, which culminated in its creation on October 1, 1996, by the Gen. Sani Abacha administration alongside five other states.
“We therefore pay special tribute to the founding fathers and all those who contributed to the struggle for the creation of Nasarawa State.
“Their vision was not merely to have another state on the map of Nigeria. That is why, 30 years later, we can confidently say that their vision has produced a living legacy,” he said.
The governor said the anniversary called for sober reflection, which informed the anniversary lectures delivered by Prof Attahiru Jega and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah.
He noted that Nasarawa’s diversity of ethnic nationalities, languages, cultures and faiths should remain a source of strength, not division.
Sule paid tribute to former administrators and governors, including Wing Commander Abdullahi Ibrahim (late), Col Bala Mande (Rtd), Abdullahi Adamu, late Aliyu Akwe-Doma and Tanko Al-Makura, for laying the foundation for development.
Highlighting his administration’s strides since 2019, Sule listed security, investment, public service, infrastructure, health, education and agriculture.
On security, he said the state is relatively peaceful due to synergy with the Federal Government, citing the establishment of military super camps in Keffi and Udege in Toto and Nasarawa LGAs, 4 Special Forces in Doma, Mobile Police Training College in Ende Hills, and Air Force Special Forces Base in Lafia.
He disclosed that following the expansion of the Nigerian Army from 8 to 12 divisions, the state secured the deployment of 10 brigades with three battalions in Wamba, Awe and Toto and an artillery regiment in Nasarawa LGA, with Brigade Headquarters at Shabu.
He added that the state government would sustain the logistics support to security agencies and collaborate with traditional institutions, vigilantes, and hunters.
On the economy, Sule said the state developed the Nasarawa Economic Development Strategy and established Nasarawa Investment and Development Agency (NASIDA) to attract investment.
He cited two lithium processing firms – Avatar New Energy Materials Company Ltd with 6,000 metric tonnes capacity and Ganfeng Lithium with 3,000 metric tonnes – and efforts to resume drilling at Ebenyi-A oil well in Obi LGA.
In health, he cited free medical outreach, relocation of Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital to Akwanga, facilitating the establishment of the Federal University of Lafia and construction of primary health centres.
In agriculture, he mentioned distribution of inputs and tractors, the Jangwa-Agwatashi farms, and establishment of Nasarawa Agro-Commodity Company, which produced NASACCO rice.
“30 years ago, our founding fathers gave us a state. The generation that followed started building the foundation. Our generation created the development we see today. The responsibility belongs to the next generation to take Nasarawa even higher,” Sule added.
Yahaya vows opportunities
Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, on Thursday reiterated his commitment to accelerating the state’s development drive, expanding economic opportunities and consolidating investments in critical sectors as Gombe marks 30 years of statehood alongside Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Yahaya made the commitment in a special anniversary message to mark October 1, 2026, saying the twin celebrations provided an opportunity to take stock of the transformation of Gombe over the past three decades while setting a clear course for the state’s next phase of growth and development.
He said Gombe had, since its creation on October 1, 1996, evolved from a new state into an increasingly important economic and administrative hub in the North-East, supported by strategic planning, investments in critical infrastructure and reforms aimed at creating an enabling environment for socio-economic development.
The governor linked the state’s development trajectory to the Gombe State 10-Year Development Plan, DEVAGOM, which provides a long-term framework for sustainable and inclusive growth.
According to him, the plan, developed through extensive stakeholder consultations, guides government interventions and investments across critical sectors, with emphasis on human capital development, infrastructure, economic growth, environmental sustainability and improved quality of life.
He said the programmes had translated into measurable progress in critical sectors, with particular emphasis on expanding access to essential services, improving public infrastructure, stimulating economic activity and strengthening the foundations for sustainable development.
In road infrastructure, the governor said the state has recorded the construction and rehabilitation of more than 1,000 kilometres of roads under the Network 11-100 programme and other interventions.
On environmental restoration, he said the government had intensified measures to address gully erosion and land degradation through targeted erosion-control and ecological restoration projects.
Aiyedatiwa seeks nation-building
Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, called on the citizens to join hands with the government in building the country.
He made the call on Thursday, adding that the business of nation-building should not be left with the government alone.
He said, “We are grateful for the peace we continue to enjoy, for the strength to confront our prevailing challenges and for the privilege of witnessing another year in the life of our great country.
“Today, as we commemorate 66 years of nationhood, we reflect on the journey we have travelled, the responsibilities that remain before us and the future we must collectively build.
“Around this period, 66 years ago, a generation of Nigerians dared to believe that a people of many tongues, traditions and faiths could share one destiny. They handed to us not a finished country, but the responsibility to build, preserve and improve the country whose freedom they secured through courage, sacrifice and conviction. Independence, therefore, is more than the memory of a date; it is a continuing responsibility to the past, the present and the future. It challenges every generation to ask: What have you done with the inheritance entrusted to you?”
He appreciated the Federal Government and the cooperation surrounding initiatives such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road, the proposed Deep-Sea Port and other projects capable of expanding the economic prospects of our state.
“We look forward to deeper collaboration in the interest of our people and the continued development of Nigeria,” the governor stated.
Wike canvasses infrastructure
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged residents of the FCT to use the forthcoming 2027 general elections to elect progressive and visionary leaders capable of sustaining and expanding the infrastructure development recorded in the territory.
Wike made the call in his Independence Day message to residents of the FCT on Thursday.
The minister, while congratulating residents, said the FCT Administration remained committed to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital city with modern infrastructure and improved public services.
He said the FCT remained a symbol of Nigeria’s unity, describing Abuja as a city where Nigerians from different ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds lived and worked together.
“Sixty-six years ago, our founding fathers laid the foundation for a sovereign nation built on the ideals of freedom, unity, and progress. Today, we look back at our journey with pride, acknowledging our resilience as a people and reaffirming our commitment to the growth and prosperity of our beloved country,” he said.
Wike said the FCT Administration had “invested heavily” in critical infrastructure, including road construction and public transportation, as part of efforts to extend development beyond the city centre to communities across the territory.
He claimed that the administration had “totally transformed” the FCT road network from the city centre to the most remote rural communities, with roads equipped with drainage systems and solar streetlights.
According to him, the projects were aimed at improving accessibility and addressing security challenges in communities located far from the city centre.
The minister also disclosed that ultramodern bus terminals had been constructed in the Abuja Municipal Area Council, with plans to extend similar facilities to Kuje, Bwari and Gwagwalada.
He said the expansion was intended to provide residents with safer and more efficient transportation services.
Wike added that the administration was improving access to healthcare and education across the six area councils, stressing that a healthy and educated population was essential to sustainable development.
On security, the minister said the administration was working with security agencies to keep the FCT safe, noting that surveillance had been intensified while community policing and modern technology were being deployed to combat crime.
He called on residents to use the elections as an opportunity to elect what he described as leaders who would sustain and expand the infrastructure development being undertaken in the FCT.
“My dear residents, as the nation prepares for the forthcoming general elections in January 2027, I enjoin you all to see it as an opportunity to vote in progressive, visionary leaders who will sustain and expand the infrastructural revolution that has commenced in the FCT, leaders who have vision and capacity to bring more development and prosperity to the people,” he said.
Saraki counsels youths
Former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, urged Nigerian youths to demand greater accountability, opportunities and better governance from elected leaders.
Saraki, in an Independence Day message issued on Thursday, said young Nigerians who had grown up under democracy had every right to expect more from the country and its leaders, particularly in areas affecting their education, employment, security and future.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, the former Kwara State governor said the significance of democracy was more readily appreciated by Nigerians who experienced military rule and witnessed the country’s return to civilian government in 1999.
“For those of us who lived through military rule, our return to democracy in 1999 meant a great deal. Simply being able to choose our leaders felt like a victory. Because it was,” Saraki said.
He, however, noted that the expectations of younger Nigerians were shaped by a different experience, as many of them had never experienced military rule or the political uncertainty that preceded the return to democracy.
Saraki said the younger generation was therefore entitled to ask whether the democratic system was delivering tangible improvements in their everyday lives.
The former Senate President listed some of the questions confronting young Nigerians, including whether they would complete their education on time, secure employment, live safely and build fulfilling lives without being compelled to leave the country.
The former Senate President added that young Nigerians could see the possibilities around them and were justified in questioning why so many talented citizens had to struggle to achieve basic aspirations.
He said Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary should serve as an opportunity for political leaders to reflect on what the country owed its younger population.
Wamakko preaches unity
Former Sokoto State Governor and senator representing Sokoto North Senatorial District, Aliyu Wamakko, called on Nigerians to promote unity, peace and mutual understanding.
Wamakko, who is also the leader of the All Progressives Congress in Sokoto State, made the call in a goodwill message issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Bashar Abubakar.
The senator congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, describing the anniversary as an important occasion for reflection on the sacrifices made by the country’s founding fathers and other citizens who contributed to Nigeria’s development.
He urged Nigerians to use the anniversary to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, united and prosperous country, regardless of ethnic, religious, regional or political differences.
According to him, Nigeria’s diversity and the resilience of its citizens remained important strengths in overcoming the challenges confronting the nation.
“We must continue to strengthen the bonds of unity, uphold the values of peace and patriotism, and contribute our quota towards building the Nigeria of our collective aspirations,” Wamakko said.
He prayed for continued peace, security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria, asking Almighty Allah to bless and protect the country and its people.
‘Reject corrupt practices’
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has called for zero tolerance for corruption by Nigerians, saying corrupt practices could undermine the Federal Government’s ongoing reforms.
Olukoyede, in his Independence Day message to Nigerians, signed by the EFCC Head of Media and Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said Nigerians must complement the government’s reform initiatives with accountable conduct and a firm rejection of corruption in all its forms.
He applauded efforts to strengthen the country’s political and economic institutions, describing them as “building blocks of the greater nation we desire.”
“At 66, Nigeria has come a long way. Independence has offered us liberty and self-determination. We are also making considerable progress in nation building. All these efforts are significant. They are the building blocks of the greater nation we desire. Let’s therefore couple all our reform-focused initiatives with zero tolerance for corruption,” he said.
Olukoyede stressed that the country’s reform efforts could not yield their desired results if corrupt practices were allowed to undermine them.
“We cannot be building and allow corrupt practices to vitiate our efforts. Progress only comes with purposeful rejection of compromises. Nigeria will surely get better!” he said.
The EFCC chairman expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects, urging citizens to reject corrupt practices and support efforts aimed at strengthening the country.
Dan’iya faults APC
The African Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Sokoto State, Manir Dan’iya, has criticised the APC-led governments at the federal and state levels, alleging that their policies have worsened economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment and access to essential services.
Dan’iya, in a statement issued by his media aide, Aminu Abdullahi, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, said the occasion should be used for sober reflection on the country’s governance and development since independence.
He said Nigerians deserved to know what had become of the resources entrusted to successive governments.
“The APC has had sufficient time and resources to demonstrate what it can do. Nigerians are entitled to ask where the dividends of those resources are,” he said.
The ADC candidate particularly criticised the Sokoto State Government’s Nine-Point Smart Agenda, describing it as “a grand political promise whose implementation has failed to match the expectations of the people.”
Dan’iya cited the state’s 2026 budget of about N758.7 billion, saying residents should be able to see measurable improvements in critical sectors, including security, water supply, healthcare, education and employment.
He said citizens’ concerns should not be overshadowed by government publicity, arguing that the performance of any administration should ultimately be measured by its impact on communities.
“Government should be judged by what citizens can actually see and feel in their communities,” he said.
According to him, while the Sokoto State Government has highlighted investments under its Nine-Point Agenda, there remained a need for greater accountability and independent scrutiny of government claims, expenditure and project outcomes.
Dan’iya urged the APC-led administrations to provide citizens with clear evidence of expenditure, completed projects and measurable results.
“Government must move beyond ceremonies, announcements and budget figures to demonstrate concrete results in security, schools, hospitals, water schemes, agriculture, jobs and the local economy,” he said.
The ADC candidate also urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to take an active interest in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 elections by examining the records, programmes and promises of all political parties.
He said the ADC would present what he described as a different approach focused on security, education, healthcare, employment, agriculture, technology, water supply, youth empowerment, institutional accountability and inclusive economic development.
Source: punchng.com
FOLLOW US ON:
FACEBOOK
TWITTER
PINTEREST
TIKTOK
YOUTUBE
LINKEDIN
INSTAGRAM
