Senate President Godswill Obot Akpabio has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the future of the country, calling for greater unity, sacrifice and commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Akpabio made the call at an Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.
In his message titled “Keeping Faith with Nigeria,” the Senate President challenged Nigerians to look beyond the country’s present difficulties and envision a nation where peace, prosperity and unity prevail.
Reflecting on the biblical question, “What seest thou?” from the Book of Zechariah, Akpabio said Nigerians must ask themselves what kind of country they want to leave behind for future generations.
“I see a peaceful Nigeria. I see a prosperous Nigeria. I see a nation where our diversity remains a source of strength and where every Nigerian can aspire to a better future,” he said.
He stressed that the responsibility of building the Nigeria of the future rests on the present generation, particularly as children are looking up to their elders for examples of leadership and citizenship.
According to him, the legacy Nigerians leave behind should not be defined by tribalism, bitterness and division, but by courage, unity, sacrifice and service to the nation.
Akpabio also highlighted Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, describing it as an achievement that should be appreciated while stressing the need to continuously strengthen the country’s democracy.
He said credible elections, strong institutions and accountable leadership remained essential to sustaining democratic governance.
The Senate President acknowledged the economic difficulties faced by many Nigerians following the reforms of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the measures had required difficult decisions and sacrifices.
He, however, said the focus should remain on ensuring that the reforms eventually deliver greater opportunities, economic stability and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
As the country approaches another Independence Day, Akpabio called on Nigerians to reject division and bitterness and renew their commitment to the wellbeing of their fellow citizens.
“With God on our side and with our collective resolve, I believe we can overcome the challenges before us and leave behind a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous nation for generations to come,” he said.
