Akpabio urges unity and confidence as Nigeria marks 66th independence anniversary

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigerians to show love for one another, preserve unity and maintain faith in the country’s future as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary. Akpabio, who is also chairman of the National Assembly, issued the message through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh. He congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, members of the National Assembly and Nigerians at home and abroad.

The Senate president described Nigeria as “our destiny, our duty, our future”. He said the anniversary recalled the hopes attached to independence, including freedom, self-government and the ability of Nigerians to shape their own direction. Akpabio honoured the country’s founding fathers and generations whose work and sacrifice made independence possible.

He said Nigerians had experienced both achievements and difficult periods but had continued to create, serve and believe. He said the country’s resilience was reflected in the work of farmers, teachers, entrepreneurs and young people, as well as in Nigerian music, enterprise, hospitality and achievements abroad. Akpabio said Nigeria’s diversity across languages, cultures and faiths should strengthen the sense of belonging to one national family.

He called for peace and described it as the foundation of the future Nigerians sought. He also honoured the Armed Forces and security agencies, particularly personnel who had died in service. He expressed gratitude to their families and said their sacrifice gave meaning to the freedom and unity celebrated on the anniversary.

Akpabio said the National Assembly remained committed to supporting efforts led by President Tinubu to strengthen Nigeria and improve people’s lives. He urged citizens to serve with integrity, compassion and devotion, and prayed for the country’s leaders and households.