Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called on Nigerians to promote unity, peace and shared responsibility as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to see Nigeria as a common inheritance that must be preserved for future generations.
Abiodun made the call during a special interdenominational church service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to commemorate the anniversary. He was represented at the service by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele.
The governor said Nigerians had a collective duty to build a united, peaceful, prosperous and just country, stressing that the task of national development could not be left solely to government.
“When we speak about development, we must also speak about the values that hold society together. Government cannot build a prosperous society alone. There is a need for citizens to work hand-in-hand with the government to build a robust nation,” Abiodun said.
He urged Nigerians to look beyond the challenges confronting the country and remain focused on the opportunities that could shape a better future.
Abiodun also commended the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that the measures would eventually translate into improved infrastructure, better livelihoods and greater economic opportunities for citizens.
At the state level, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding economic programmes, strengthening public institutions and investing in human capital until the end of his tenure.
“The true measure of governance is not simply the projects commissioned, but the lives improved and opportunities created,” he said.
The governor also appealed to political leaders and religious institutions to promote peace, mutual respect and responsible civic engagement as the country approaches another election cycle.
He cautioned that political differences should not be allowed to undermine national unity or relationships among citizens.
“We can disagree without becoming enemies, compete without violence and defend our convictions while respecting the rights of others,” Abiodun stated.
In his sermon titled, “A Call to Repentance,” drawn from Joel 2:12–14, the Archbishop of Lagos and Bishop of Remo, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Olusina Fape, urged Nigerians, particularly leaders, to humble themselves, turn away from corruption and seek divine guidance.
Fape identified greed as a major factor driving systemic corruption in the country, warning against attempts to disguise corrupt practices through public relations.
“Nigeria is not where it should be today because infrastructural decay persists, health and tertiary institutions struggle, and businesses have folded up,” the cleric said.
He, however, noted that the country had recorded some security improvements, saying Nigerians should be grateful that incidents of banditry and kidnapping had reduced.
The Archbishop commended Abiodun for what he described as developmental strides in Ogun State and urged residents to reject politics of hatred and embrace peace, unity and mutual understanding.
The service ended with special prayers for Nigeria, Ogun State, the executive arm of government and traditional institutions.
