The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has called for collective effort among Nigerians, regardless of ethnic, religious and political leanings, to build a progressive country, as the nation marks her 59th Independence anniversary.
In a statement, the governor said as Nigerians celebrate the memorable day, the state government and its people are fired up by “a common determination to work together as a people to build this country into a strong, formidable and prosperous nation.”
According to him, “On this auspicious day, I congratulate fellow countrymen on the landmark attainment on October 1, 1960, the day we acquired the right to chart the course of our destiny on our own terms.
“Today, our belief in the Nigerian nation has not waned. Instead, we are encouraged by our common determination to work together as a people to build this country into a strong, formidable and prosperous nation.”
He stressed that Nigerians have no choice than to work for the progress of Nigeria as it is the only place they can really call home, noting, “There may be disagreements and issues that may challenge our faith in our dear country, but it is undeniable that we have more ties that bind us together and we must not succumb to the discordant tunes that may threaten our corporate existence.”
“In Edo State, we are re-enacting the legacies of our past heroes who had at one time or the other set the state on the path of progress with their noble legacies. We are therefore dedicated to the goal of ensuring that we have a state that has the full complement of infrastructure, policies and other amenities to provide the people with the right environment to live fruitful, prosperous lives,” he added.
Stressing the need for Nigeria to consolidate on her democratic journey, and ensure a sustained march towards a free, united and indivisible country, the governor said, “I will always put you, my great Edo people, first in all our endeavours as a government. The focus of this administration is to transform this state into a place where the rule of law will guide and be fair to all, where opportunities will be open to the poor as it is to the rich, and where there will be the dignity of labour, regardless of your position in society.
“I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating this remarkable day and pray for more years of prosperity, progress and unity. Our resolve remains firm and our belief unwavering in our sure-footed quest to transform the social, economic and political fortunes of Nigeria towards meeting the aspirations of our founding fathers and our people.
“I restate my commitment to you the people, your economic prosperity and yearnings for social justice, infrastructural development, sound education and improved healthcare.”
Meanwhile, over 100 public and private primary and secondary schools in Oyo state will participate in a match past at the Adamasingba Sport Complex on Tuesday, October 1, to commemorate the 59th Independence day celebration.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun dropped this hint today in Ibadan.
The Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, is expected to take March past salute at the Stadium.
The Commissioner disclosed further that voluntary organisations, unions, associations, military and para military agencies will participate in the match past, adding that the theme for this year’s celebration is tagged “Moving Nigeria from Poverty to Posterity”.
Dr. Wasiu Olatubosun remarked that the celebration is an ideal platform for national integration, hence, the celebration is taking place in all the 36 States of the federation including the Federal Capital Territory, stressing that public and civil servants, teachers, parents, guardians and all the members of the public are expected to attend the event to show love for Nigeria.
The Commissioner enjoined all the invited dignitaries, public and private schools, voluntary organisations, unions and association to attend punctually stressing that the government will provide adequate security for life and property throughout the period of the celebration.
The Commissioner said further that other highlights of the program on Tuesday October 1st include cycling display, cultural display by the Oyo State Cultural troupe and the NYSC Cultural Group among others.