Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the country’s founding heroes and remain united in the face of prevailing challenges, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.
Makinde made the call on Thursday during the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Bayo Lawal, spoke on the theme, “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing”.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olarenwaju, Makinde said Nigeria’s independence in 1960 was achieved through the sacrifices and struggles of the country’s founding fathers.
He said the freedom enjoyed by Nigerians today was a product of their efforts and should inspire citizens to remain responsible and committed to nation-building.
Makinde said the anniversary also provided an opportunity for sober reflection on the challenges confronting Nigeria and Oyo State, noting that independence had enabled Nigerians to govern themselves under democratic principles and the rule of law.
The governor stressed that unity remained essential to Nigeria’s progress, noting that the country’s diversity, with more than 250 ethnic groups, should be a source of strength rather than division.
“We must appreciate our heroes past for what they did to achieve and attain independence in 1960. Independence was earned through their sacrifices and countless struggles. The freedom we enjoy today is a result of their labour,” he said.
“As we reflect on our nation’s journey since 1960, we must acknowledge the challenges we face in all ramifications. As a state, we also have our own challenges in Oyo State.
“This day calls for sober reflection on the issues confronting us at both the national and state levels. But we must also appreciate that independence teaches us, at both national and state levels, how to govern ourselves. And we cannot govern ourselves without upholding the rule of law and the tenets of democracy.”
Makinde also highlighted what he described as achievements recorded by his administration since 2019 in areas including education, security, sports, business and infrastructure.
He thanked the people of Oyo State for their cooperation and support, which he said had helped the government pursue its development agenda.
“Since 2019, when this administration was elected, we have achieved feats and progress in all spheres of life: education, security, sports, business, and infrastructure,” he said.
On security, the governor said the state had established the Amotekun Corps, which works with other security agencies to maintain peace across Oyo.
He also said infrastructure development had been spread across the five zones of the state, including Oke-Ogun I and II, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa and Ibadan.
According to him, projects undertaken by the administration include education facilities, road networks, the Light Up Oyo initiative and healthcare infrastructure.
Makinde congratulated the people of Oyo State and Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and urged citizens to continue living together peacefully for the development of the country.
The celebration featured a march past, cultural displays and the presentation of prizes.
Among those who attended were the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mohammed Fadeyi; Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima; Head of Service, Adenike Fashina; Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke; other commissioners and permanent secretaries; President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Ajeniyi Ajewole; Chairman of All Chairmen, Sikiru Sanda; service commanders; religious leaders; traditional rulers and other dignitaries.
Makinde’s appeal for unity comes amid wider national discussions around insecurity and the need for stronger community participation in addressing security challenges.
