The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to be patient and hopeful, stressing that the country’s brightest days are ahead.
Akpabio made the remarks at the Inter-Denominational Church Service held on Sunday at the National Christian Centre in Abuja to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.
The Senate President told the congregation: “As we celebrate today, let us also acknowledge the challenges we face.
“Yes, the road ahead may be bumpy. Yes, there will be setbacks. But together, united in our faith and love for Nigeria, we will prevail.
“Our journey to become a prosperous nation is just beginning, and I urge each of you to be patient, hold on to hope, and believe that change is not only possible but inevitable.
“Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead of us. Together, with unwavering belief, we will build a nation that our children and generations will be proud of.”
Akpabio acknowledged the indomitable spirit of Nigerians, who must withstand and overcome many challenges from the earliest struggles for independence to the present.
“Undoubtedly, the Nigerian nation is defined by resilience. From our earliest struggles for independence to the challenges of modern governance, we have continually shown our indomitable spirit.
“When faced with adversity, we rise. When confronted with challenges, we unite. Today, I thank God for the Nigerian spirit that has led us through turbulent times, across our Red Seas and Jordan Rivers, over our hills and mountains and through every valley we have encountered,” Akpabio said.
He particularly commended the leadership qualities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steering the ship of the nation towards the path of prosperity.
Akpabio said President Tinubu’s leadership gave the nation hope that “Nigeria can and will be better”, adding that Tinubu’s “courage and dedication to Nigeria’s advancement is indeed inspirational.”
The Senate President recalled some pro-development laws passed by the 10th National Assembly to bring renewed hope to the citizenry and foster growth in key sectors.
“As we commemorate Nigeria’s independence today, let us celebrate the achievements that have brought us this far.
“Every milestone we have crossed is a testament to our collective will, strength and determination as Nigerians. Our nation is in the process of a Renewed Hope Project tailored to rejuvenate our economy, empower our people and lift the most vulnerable among us,” Akpabio said.
Earlier, the Archbishop of Abuja, Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Akinwale, preached a sermon of hope for the country when he spoke prophetically of seeing a dream that Nigeria would be great again and become one among the giants of nations of the world.
In his remarks, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, also said the government was making “huge progress.”
He referenced the government’s efforts, including the Student Loan scheme, gains recorded in the battle against insecurity, and the CNG initiatives.
“There is hope. I also dream that this country under Asiwaju will be the most blessed, most successful and prosperous in Africa and the world,” Akume said.
