Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerians to join hands with government at all levels in building a stronger and more prosperous nation as the country marked its 66th Independence anniversary.
Aiyedatiwa made the call on Thursday during the Independence Day celebration in Akure, the state capital, where he described nation-building as a collective responsibility that requires the contribution of every citizen.
The governor said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, the challenges that remain and the responsibility of the present generation to build a better future.
According to him, Nigeria’s founding generation handed over to succeeding generations not a finished country, but the responsibility to preserve, improve and strengthen the nation.
“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 said.
Aiyedatiwa urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to peace, unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, stressing that the Nigeria they desire could not be built by government alone.
“Let us continue to uphold peace, unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, knowing that the Nigeria we desire will not be built by government alone, but by the collective efforts of its citizens,” he said.
The governor also commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as efforts by the Federal Government to reform the Nigerian economy.
He said Ondo State appreciated the administration’s initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy, infrastructure and investment environment, as well as strategic projects with potential implications for the state.
Aiyedatiwa specifically acknowledged the cooperation surrounding projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the proposed Deep-Sea Port, saying such initiatives could expand the economic prospects of Ondo State.
“We look forward to deeper collaboration in the interest of our people and the continued development of Nigeria,” the governor said.
He urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary to reflect on their individual and collective responsibilities while remaining committed to the continued development and unity of the country.