The President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has again appealed to Nigerians to remain optimistic, saying that the country’s brightest days are coming soon.
The former Governor of Akwa Ibom State made this appeal on Sunday at the Inter-denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja as part of activities to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
“As we celebrate today, let us also acknowledge the challenges we face. Yes, the road ahead may be bumpy. Yes, there will be setbacks. But together, united in our faith and love for Nigeria, we will prevail.
“Our journey to become a prosperous nation is just beginning and I urge each of you to be patient, to hold on to hope and to believe that change is not only possible but inevitable.
“Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead of us. Together, with unwavering belief, we will build a nation that our children and generations to come will be proud of,” Akpabio said.
The lawmaker acknowledged the indomitable spirit of Nigerians to withstand and overcome a myriad of challenges from the earliest struggles for independence to date.
Akpabio, “Undoubtedly, the Nigerian nation is defined by resilience. From our earliest struggles for independence to the challenges of modern governance, we have continually shown our indomitable spirit.
“When faced with adversity, we rise. When confronted with challenges, we unite. Today, I thank God for the Nigerian spirit that has led us through turbulent times, across our Red Seas and Jordan Rivers, over our hills and mountains and through every valley we have encountered.”
He also praised the leadership skills of President Bola Tinubu for guiding the country towards a prosperous future.
He mentioned that President Tinubu’s leadership instilled in the country a sense of hope that Nigeria can indeed improve and that his bravery and commitment to the country’s progress serve as a source of inspiration.
He remembered several laws enacted by the 10th National Assembly focused on instilling hope among the people and promoting development in important areas.
The Senate president said, “As we commemorate Nigeria’s independence today, let us celebrate the achievements that have brought us this far. Every milestone we have crossed is a testament to our collective will, strength and determination as Nigerians. Our nation is in the process of a renewed hope project that is tailored to rejuvenate our economy, empower our people and lift up the most vulnerable among us.”
Earlier at the same event, the head of the Abuja Methodist Church of Nigeria, Archbishop Michael Akinwale, delivered a message of optimism for the nation, prophesizing a vision of Nigeria rising to prominence and standing tall among the world’s leading countries.
Additionally, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, mentioned that the government was making significant strides in the development of the nation.
He highlighted the government’s initiatives, such as the Student Loan program, achievements in the fight against insecurity, and the CNG projects.
He said, “There is hope. I have a dream too, that this country under Asiwaju is going to be the most blessed, most successful and prosperous in Africa and the world.”