President of the Senate and Chairman of the National Assembly, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to love, unity and the collective future of the country as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Akpabio, in a goodwill message released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described Nigeria as “our destiny, our duty, our future,” while congratulating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the National Assembly and Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary.
The Senate President said the 66th anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s journey as an independent nation and reflect on the sacrifices and aspirations of the generations that laid the foundation for the country.
He said the raising of the national flag 66 years ago represented the hopes of millions of Nigerians for freedom, self-government and the opportunity to shape the nation’s destiny.
Akpabio honoured Nigeria’s founding fathers and successive generations for their courage, labour and sacrifice, urging present-day Nigerians to justify the confidence reposed in them by building a country that future generations would inherit with pride.
According to him, although Nigeria’s journey has been marked by “triumphs and trials, seasons of confidence and moments of uncertainty,” Nigerians have continued to strive, create, serve and believe in the country.
He said the resilience of Nigerians remained a defining strength of the nation, noting that the Nigerian spirit was reflected in the efforts of farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and young people pursuing their dreams.
“Today, we celebrate that resilience: the strength of a people whose hopes have survived every storm,” he said.
Akpabio also highlighted Nigeria’s cultural diversity, describing the country’s different languages, cultures and faiths as part of its national inheritance.
He urged Nigerians to use the anniversary to strengthen bonds across ethnic, cultural and religious lines, stressing that peace and unity remained essential to building the country’s future.
The Senate President also paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces and security agencies who have sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, while extending gratitude to their families.
He assured Nigerians that the National Assembly would continue to support efforts by the administration of President Tinubu aimed at strengthening the country and improving the lives of its citizens.
Akpabio called on Nigerians to approach the next chapter of the nation’s journey with integrity, compassion and devotion, saying independence was an inheritance that must be renewed by every generation.
“Our past gives us perspective, our present gives us responsibility, and our future gives us purpose. Together, let us carry its promise into the future,” he said.
He wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for God’s blessing on Nigerian homes, guidance for the nation’s leaders and the continued preservation of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
