President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on all Nigerians to embrace unity, peace, and collective effort as the nation celebrates 65 years of independence, emphasizing that national development can only be achieved when citizens live together in harmony.
The President made the call on Friday, September 26, during a special Jumaat prayer held at the National Mosque in Abuja, organized as part of the 65th independence anniversary celebrations.
This was contained in a statement signed by Dr. Suleiman Haruna, Director of Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, in a statement issued Friday.
Tinubu was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who delivered the presidential message.
“Differences will always exist,” the Minister noted, quoting the President, “but the President’s message is one of hope, unity, and togetherness.
“All Nigerians must imbibe these values so that, collectively, we can achieve the progress and prosperity that Mr President has promised since assuming office.”
The prayer gathering, attended by government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and members of the public, provided a solemn platform for reflection on Nigeria’s journey since independence in 1960.
The event underscored the importance of spiritual renewal and national cohesion as the country navigates current socio-economic challenges.
While acknowledging the difficulties facing the nation, the Minister emphasized that the Tinubu administration is making steady progress in transforming the country.
He urged Nigerians to remain patient and supportive as the government works to improve the fortunes of the nation.
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“He explained that though the country is undergoing transformation, the Tinubu administration is making steady progress towards tackling them, while calling on Nigerians to be patient as efforts were ongoing to turn around the fortunes of the nation.
President Tinubu, through the Minister, extended warm congratulations to all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, urging continued prayers for the leadership and the country as it strives toward a brighter future.
“While congratulating Nigerians on her independence, the President urged citizens to continue to pray for the leaders and the country as it moves towards attaining a brighter future,” Haruna’s statement read.
Centered on the theme “Nigeria at 65: All Hands-on Deck for a Greater Nation,”* the anniversary serves as a rallying cry for national unity and collective responsibility.
The Minister reiterated that the President is appealing to all Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious, political, or social affiliations, to come together in unison to build the Nigeria of our dreams.
Highlighting key achievements of the administration, the Minister pointed to significant economic growth, improvements in national security, notable progress in agriculture, and advances in other critical sectors.
“What is needed now,” he stressed, “is for Nigerians to work hand in hand,” while wishing citizens a peaceful and joyous celebration.
Also in attendance was the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Mohammed Abubakar Kyari, who affirmed that Nigeria is on a trajectory to recover its lost glory among the comity of nations.
Adding his voice to the call for peace, the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Traditional Council, His Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, prayed for the well-being and prosperity of the nation at 65, urging all Nigerians to live in peaceful coexistence.
As the nation reflects on six and a half decades of independence, the message from the federal government remains clear: unity, resilience, and shared purpose are essential to building a greater Nigeria.