Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has urged Nigerians to respond to the challenges facing the country with renewed faith, responsible citizenship and collective action.
Sanwo-Olu made the call on Sunday at an inter-denominational service held at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, acknowledged the progress and difficulties Nigeria had experienced since independence.
He said the country’s ability to withstand periods of adversity should give citizens confidence in its capacity to achieve a better future.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria possessed significant human and natural resources that could support national development, citing its youthful population, skilled workforce, natural wealth, creativity and entrepreneurial energy.
He stressed that building the country could not be left to government alone, urging citizens to contribute through responsible conduct and commitment to the common good.
According to him, honest work, excellence, compassion and responsible citizenship were essential to creating the Nigeria citizens aspire to.
He also called on religious institutions to complement prayers for the nation with practical efforts to promote peaceful coexistence, responsible citizenship and development.
“The theme of this year’s anniversary service, ‘A Nation of Hope, Healing and Revival,’ aptly captures our aspirations as a people at this time.
“Nigeria has experienced periods of progress and difficult challenges since independence, but our ability to endure through adversity remains a reason for optimism about our future,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu highlights Lagos development
The governor said Lagos’ development trajectory demonstrated what could be achieved when government, citizens and other stakeholders combined determination, innovation and a shared sense of purpose.
He cited investments by his administration in transportation, education, healthcare, security, enterprise development and environmental sustainability as efforts aimed at improving the quality of life in the state.
Sanwo-Olu said his administration would continue investing in Lagos and its people, adding that the ambition of building a greater Lagos was linked to the broader goal of strengthening Nigeria.
“We must continue to believe in Nigeria and in our collective capacity to build the nation we desire. Our diversity should be a source of strength and not division,” he said.
He expressed his vision of a country where children have opportunities to fulfil their potential, hard work is rewarded, communities are secure and diversity contributes to unity and progress.
Governor calls for active citizenship
Sanwo-Olu urged Nigerians to look beyond the difficulties confronting the country and play an active role in shaping its future.
He said patriotism should extend beyond Independence Day celebrations to everyday actions that promote social cohesion, respect the rights of others and contribute to national development.
The governor also offered prayers for Nigeria’s leaders, communities and security personnel, asking for wisdom, courage and compassion for those responsible for steering the country through its challenges.
He prayed for peace, justice and prosperity, while calling for greater opportunities for young Nigerians.
Sanwo-Olu said Nigeria’s future should be characterised by increased opportunities for citizens, particularly children and young people, and an environment where people could apply their abilities without avoidable barriers.
He expressed optimism about the country’s prospects, urging Nigerians to approach the future with faith, hope and courage.
“Our best chapters are yet to be written. Let us move forward with faith, with hope and with courage, knowing that the Nigeria we desire is possible if we collectively dedicate ourselves to building and enjoying it,” he said.
The governor concluded by praying for the country’s renewal, saying, “May Nigeria rise in a renewed hope, be renewed in healing, and experience a great revival.”
He wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary and urged continued confidence in the country’s future.
