Dare Babalola
As Nigeria clocks 65 years of independence, the nation’s leaders, governors, and prominent groups have sent messages to mark this significant milestone. These messages reflect on the country’s journey so far, acknowledging the progress made and challenges overcome, while also highlighting the work still needed to achieve a brighter future for all Nigerians.
The messages emphasise the importance of unity, collective effort, and perseverance in the face of adversity. They also call on Nigerians to recommit to the ideals of democracy, work together to overcome current challenges, and strive for a more prosperous and equitable society. As the nation celebrates six decades of independence, these messages serve as a reminder of the power of collective action and the need for sustained effort to build a better future.
As Nigerians reflect on their nation’s history and look to the future, these messages offer a chance to re-evaluate priorities, reaffirm values, and renew commitments to the country’s development. They also provide an opportunity for citizens to join in moving the nation forward.
We must work together to build greater Nigeria – Akpabio
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has stated the need for all Nigerians to work together to ensure that the country is greater than it was 65 years ago.
Akpabio, in a message to celebrate the country’s 65th independence anniversary, urged Nigerians to endure the pains of the reforms “in the interest of our children and future generations”.
“At 65, we are mature and should be working for the unity of the nation and prosperity of our people. We salute your resilience, patience and endurance in the last two years. We deeply appreciate your support and understanding.
“In line with the theme of this year’s celebration, ‘All hands are on deck for a greater Nigeria’, I urge you to continue to bear the temporary discomfort of the ongoing reforms
Nigeria on the right path – Speaker Abbas
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging the citizens to be hopeful of a bright future.
Abbas, in a congratulatory message on Tuesday, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Leke Baiyewu, said Nigeria has come a long way through a chequered history, while the years ahead promise greater unity and prosperity for all.
“Nigeria remains on the right path with the ongoing implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. We remain the giant of Africa,” he said, stressing that Nigeria is fated to reclaim its position as the biggest economy on the African continent.
Unite to fight insecurity – Radda
On his part, the Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, urged Nigerians to unite in the fight against insecurity as the country marks its 65th Independence anniversary.
Radda made the call in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, on Tuesday in Katsina.
He said the anniversary should serve as a moment to reflect on the nation’s journey and renew commitment to addressing challenges.
“As we celebrate 65 years of independence, we must recognise that nation-building is a shared responsibility. The security challenges confronting our nation require all hands on deck,” he stated.
Rise above religious, ethnic divides, says CAN
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th independence anniversary, calling for more sacrifice among the citizens.
In a statement on Wednesday, CAN’s President, Daniel Okoh, said the nation’s challenges could be overcome by patriotism and faith in God.
“As a faith community, CAN believes that the challenges we face can be overcome with collective sacrifice, patriotism, and trust in God.
“We, therefore, call on all Nigerians, leaders and citizens alike to rise above ethnic, religious, and political divides, and to work together for the common good,” the statement read.
Remain optimistic, Gov Mbah to Nigerians
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, called on Nigerians to remain optimistic and united in the face of current challenges.
The call was contained in his message to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary on Wednesday.
Mbah assured that the economic policies of the President Bola Tinubu administration and citizens’ sacrifices would ultimately pay off if the nation stays the course.
“At 65, our independence is a reminder of what we can achieve as a people when we are united. It is also a reminder that progress demands sacrifice, and that tomorrow is shaped by the choices we make today.
“The sacrifices may be huge today, but there is no doubt that the end will vindicate the decisions if we stay the course.”
Pray for Nigeria – Kebbi governor, Idris
Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, calling for consistent prayers and collective efforts to restore peace across the nation.
In a goodwill message made available to newsmen in Birnin Kebbi on Wednesday, Idris described the anniversary as a moment for sober reflection and renewed patriotism.
“We have no other country like Nigeria, therefore, it is our duty to do everything possible to protect and project its image. Seeking divine intervention is critical to the restoration of peace, hence the need for us all to repent and return to our creator for His intervention,” he added
Nigeria facing bad leadership, governance – Atiku
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of neglecting the welfare and security of Nigerians despite worsening hunger and rising insecurity across the country.
In a post on his X handle on Wednesday, Atiku described the situation as “tragic,” noting that millions of citizens have been reduced to “refugees and beggars in their fatherland” despite Nigeria’s vast human and material resources.
“At 65, Nigeria remains a giant moving painfully slow on feet of clay, a direct result of decades of poor leadership and wasteful governance. Nonetheless, with the right leadership, our dear country can still rise from the ashes of failed governance to reclaim its rightful place among the comity of nations,” Atiku said.
We are not where we want to be – Seyi Makinde
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in his goodwill message posted via his X account on Wednesday, said Nigeria is not where it ought to be.
He, however, stressed the need to work towards a better Nigeria.
He wrote, “As we mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary of independence from colonial rule today, we celebrate Nigerians for their contributions to nation building. While we are not where we want to be as a nation, we can keep working towards getting on the right track to build a country that works for all. May we remain bound in freedom, peace and unity. Happy Independence Day!”
GenCos under enormous financial, operational pressure – Executive Secretary, Ogaji
Power generation companies under the aegis of the Association of Power Generation Companies congratulated President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians on the country’s 65th Independence anniversary.
The companies, however, warned that the electricity sector faces a deepening crisis that requires urgent intervention.
In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday and signed by the APGC Executive Secretary, Joy Ogaji, the GenCos said October 1 remained a symbolic day for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s resilience and renew the commitment to building a stronger country.
It stressed that without urgent reforms and coordinated support, the sector risked “further deterioration with far-reaching implications for national development, economic stability and investor confidence.”
“The Association of Power Generation Companies warmly felicitates with the President, the Government, and the good people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria as we celebrate the 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence.”
However, it maintained that persistent revenue shortfalls, mounting debts owed to GenCos, inadequate gas supply, and limited foreign exchange access had pushed operators to the brink.
“We commend the Federal Government for initiatives aimed at strengthening the power sector, such as interventions that seek to address market liquidity, encourage private sector investment, and support greater access to electricity for households and businesses.
“Yet, at 65, the reality is that the generation segment of the power value chain stands at a critical crossroads. GenCos are under enormous financial and operational pressure. Without urgent, coordinated, and sustained action, the sector risks further deterioration, a situation that would have far-reaching implications for national development, economic stability, and investor confidence,” it stated.
Nigerians are living in fear – Former SDP presidential candidate
The Social Democratic Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, warned that the nation cannot prosper while millions of its citizens remain trapped in poverty and fear.
In a statement issued in Abuja to commemorate the day, Adebayo said the country’s promise of greatness would remain unfulfilled unless urgent action were taken to confront insecurity, hunger, and corruption.
“No nation can prosper while its people live in fear. Peace is not optional; it is the precondition for progress, the anchor of prosperity, and the oxygen of national renewal,” he declared.
No one is above the law, NBA declares
President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) called for justice, fairness, and the rule of law to remain the foundation of Nigeria’s nationhood as the country marks its 65th Independence anniversary.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, Osigwe said that independence is not only a historic milestone to be celebrated but an ongoing responsibility to safeguard freedom, strengthen democracy, and protect the rights and dignity of citizens.
“For us at the Nigerian Bar Association, this day carries profound meaning. We are reminded of our duty to ensure Nigeria remains a country where no one is above the law, and no one is beneath its protection,” he added.
I believe in a better tomorrow – Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a post on his X account on Wednesday, maintained that he believes in a better tomorrow for Nigeria despite the challenges the country is facing.
“Today, as we mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, I am grateful for how far we have come as a people. Our journey has not been without challenges, yet it remains a story of resilience, hope, and belief in a better tomorrow.
“This day reminds us of the responsibility we share to build a Lagos, and a Nigeria, where every citizen feels seen, heard, and empowered to thrive.
“Let us continue working together to hand over a brighter future to the next generation. Happy Independence Day, Nigeria,” Sanwo-Olu wrote.
Nigeria remains a nation of boundless possibility – NPF
The Nigeria Police Force has stated that Nigeria is a nation of boundless possibilities.
In its goodwill message to Nigerians, the police, in a statement signed by the Force spokesman, Benjamin Hundeyin, on behalf of the Inspector General, Kayode Egbetokun, said, “From our rich cultures to our shared dreams, Nigeria remains a nation of hope, courage and boundless possibilities. May the 65th Independence Anniversary usher in peace, progress, unity and prosperity for us all. Happy Independence Day”.
Independence anniversary must be meaningful to all Nigerians – Kaduna gov, Sani
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Dr. Uba Sani, said 65 years of independence marks a significant milestone in the journey of a nation that has weathered many storms, yet continues to stand tall, proud, and unbroken.
He stated this in Independence Anniversary message to the people of Kaduna State.
“This anniversary is both a celebration and a call to reflection: a celebration of our collective resilience, and a moment to honour the sacrifices and vision of our founding fathers, who won for us the freedom we now enjoy
“We must not merely commemorate independence: we must make it meaningful for every Nigerian.”
Betta Edu commends Tinubu’s bold decisive steps
A former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Betta Edu, has commended President Bola Tinubu over what she described as bold and decisive steps, saying they are solid foundations for sustainable growth and national renewal.
She called on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility as the nation charts a renewed course for growth and prosperity.
Edu made this known in a goodwill message to Nigerians on Wednesday
According to her, the 65th Independence Anniversary “Is not only a moment for celebration but also an opportunity for thanksgiving to God and for a renewed commitment to the dream of a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.”
Adding, Edu commended President Bola Tinubu for “His bold and decisive steps in repositioning the economy, extending care to the vulnerable, and entrenching citizen-centred governance.”
Nigeria needs credible leaders – David Mark
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, said that only visionary and credible leadership can steer Nigeria out of its current challenges
In a statement on Tuesday, the former Senate President urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the past in order to make informed choices in the 2027 general elections.
“Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youth are losing hope due to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings,” he said.
He called for urgent investment in intelligence gathering, modern technology, and the welfare of security personnel, alongside measures to tackle poverty, injustice, and exclusion.
Renew commitment to Nigeria, NDLEA preaches
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to serve Nigeria better.
In a statement via its X handle on Wednesday, the agency wrote, “As we mark this milestone, let us renew our commitment to service, unity and the ideals that bind us as one people under one flag.”
We’ll continue to support national development – NEMA
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) pledged to continue to support national development.
“As we celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, we reflect on the nation’s journey and the critical role emergency response and management play in our progress.
“Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we’ll continue enhancing our capabilities, fostering partnerships, and leveraging technology to better serve Nigerians. We salute the resilience and determination of Nigerians and reaffirm our commitment to supporting national development, protecting lives and property, and contributing to a safer, more prosperous Nigeria,” the agency said in a statement signed by its Director General, Zubaida Umar, on Wednesday.
