Former Senate President and National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has warned that Nigeria’s survival now depends on bold leadership and urgent action to rescue citizens from mounting hardship.
In a statement on Tuesday, September 30, signed by his Media Adviser, Paul Mumeh, to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Mark painted a stark picture of the nation’s reality.
He said insecurity, unemployment, inflation, food scarcity, and a dying industrial sector have pushed families to the brink.
“Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youths are losing hope to unemployment.
“Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings, while factories close and businesses relocate, leaving despair in their wake. Families struggle daily to put food on the table. These are harsh truths we cannot deny,” he said.
Mark argued that Nigeria has shown resilience through decades of trials, but warned that resilience without visionary leadership will not save the nation.
He said independence must be remembered as more than a symbolic flag-raising in 1960.
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“Sixty-five years ago, we lifted the flag of freedom and declared ourselves a sovereign people. That moment was not just the end of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our responsibility to build a nation worthy of our hopes,” he said.
On security, Mark called for investment in intelligence, modern technology, and welfare for security personnel, while tackling the roots of violence in poverty and injustice.
Meanwhile, on the economy, he urged the revival of industries, stronger support for small businesses, and real empowerment for youths in technology, agriculture, and innovation.
The former Senate President also stressed the need for renewed commitment to agriculture, efficient storage systems, and fair distribution to achieve food security.
Above all, Mark insisted that Nigeria must rediscover the unity and sacrifice that won independence.
“No nation is ever too broken to be rebuilt when her people are determined. At 65, our burdens are real, but so is our resilience. Our hope must outweigh our despair, and our strength must carry us forward,” he said.
Looking ahead to 2027, Mark urged Nigerians to demand credible leadership at the polls.
He assured that the ADC stands ready as an alternative, promising to restore hope and rebuild the nation if entrusted with power.