Some Local Government Chairmen in Lagos State, on Thursday, congratulated Nigeria on its 60th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain united toward advancing national development.
They gave the advice in their separate independence anniversary messages, made available to the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos.
Dr Ahmed Apatira, Executive Chairman, Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA), in his Independence Day message, urged citizens to remain united and resolute for a better tomorrow.
“We need to be proud of our heritage among the comity of nations and remain united as an indivisible entity as we celebrate the nation’s 60th Independence Day anniversary.
“I enjoin us to remember and honour the patriotism of our past leaders who gave their lives to ensure the freedom of this entity called Nigeria.
“Today should not just be seen as a holiday, but a day to remind ourselves of our civic responsibilities to our dear country.
“It should also be regarded as a significant day to reawaken our spirits, forge ahead with love, peace and hope for prosperity,’’ Apatira said.
Alhaji Ganiyu Egunjobi, Executive Chairman, Agege Local Government called for collective efforts to preserve the unity of the country and promote the nation’s development.
“I congratulate all residents of Agege, Lagosians and Nigerians generally on this celebration of Nigeria’s independence, the diamond celebration.
“On this day, we must remember our past leaders, who fought hard to make this possible.
“The task that Nigeria remains an indivisible unit demands our collective effort,’’ Egunjobi said.
In her own anniversary message, Mrs Omolola Essien, Executive Chairman, Lagos Mainland Local Government urged citizens to always remember the sacrifices of those who brought the country to freedom.
“Oct. 1 is the greatest, most significant day of the history of our beloved nation.
“It is celebrated with much enthusiasm to commemorate the sacrifices of those who fought bravely to bring freedom for the nation.
“With our collective and committed efforts, we have succeeded in containing the magnitude of the pandemic and saving a large number of lives.
“The nation is indebted to doctors, nurses, other health workers and volunteers who have continuously been on the forefront of our fight against the coronavirus.
“They are our national heroes,’’ Essien said.
Mr Hammed Tijani, Executive Chairman, Ojokoro Local Council Development Area LCDA urged citizens to reflect on how far they had come in togetherness.
“Let us find time to reflect on how far we have come; what we have done right or wrong so that together we can chart a new way forward.
“We have passed through thick and thin in the last 60 years, particularly during the outbreak of the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
“But God has been able to keep us together safely as one indivisible great nation, knowing that there can never be a testimony without a test.
“So, let us be grateful for God’s immense blessings on our dear country as we continually pray for our unity and sustainability.
“We should be hopeful of seeing a more united and peaceful nation, in many more years to come,’’ Tijani said.
From Ayobo Ipaja LCDA, the Executive Chairman, Mr Yusuf Sakiru called on citizens to be united in the fight against injustice.
Sakiru urged them to eschew bitterness and promote unity in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that President Muhammadu Buhari, in his 60th independence anniversary speech, said with the unity of purpose, the country would emerge from the present challenges stronger and more resilient than ever.
The president said the country would be better if citizens join hands to entrench good governance, foster inclusive economic development and defend the nation against all those who would wish her ill.
Edited By: Buhari Bolaji/Abdulfatah Babatunde
Source:
