Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has described Nigeria as a proud nation with “much to be thankful for” as the country marks 65 years of independence.
Speaking at an inter-denominational thanksgiving service held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, on the 28th of September, 2025, the governor said Nigeria had endured challenges that could have torn it apart, but for “God’s mercy and the resilience of its people.”
He urged citizens to strengthen the bonds of unity, justice, fairness, and equity, which he described as essential for building a stronger and more prosperous country. According to him, the survival of the nation through daunting moments remains “a proof of divine grace.”
Oborevwori also praised the role of the Church in promoting peace across the nation. He acknowledged that “without the prayers of Christians and preaching of the gospel, the nation’s situation would have been worse,” while calling on clerics to keep praying for leaders.
The governor stressed the need for collective responsibility in nation-building. “Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute to the Nigeria of our dreams. Independence was born out of a vision of hope and brightness for this country, and we must continue to build on the sacrifices of our founding fathers,” he said.
Turning to Delta State, Oborevwori emphasized that peace remained the foundation for growth. “What we want in Delta state is peace, because development starts where peace abounds. When there is peace, we can do more for our people. Those of us in political leadership must always put the people’s interest first, not our own,” he added.
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He also challenged Nigerian youths to take the lead in promoting unity and moral uprightness. “This country will not be rebuilt by foreigners. It is we, Nigerians, who will rebuild it. Let us make the necessary sacrifices for the brighter future that awaits us. Nigeria is God’s own country,” he declared.
Delivering the homily, the Catholic Bishop of Issele-Uku Diocese, Most Rev. Michael Elue, called on Nigerians to embrace the “good fight of faith.” He highlighted the values of righteousness, godliness, love, endurance, and gentleness as virtues that must guide the nation.
The bishop further appealed to the wealthy to extend kindness to the needy, stressing that “what we share with our brothers and sisters is what will count for us when we appear before God on the day of judgment.”