Interim National Chairman of the Labour Party (LP), Senator Nenadi Esther Usman, has urged Nigerians not to give up hope in the country but instead, demand accountability from leaders as the country marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.
In a goodwill message to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on Wednesday, Senator Usman acknowledged that the nation has faced numerous challenges and missed opportunities since independence in 1960, but insisted there was still much to celebrate.
“Our continued existence as one indivisible nation – despite numerous challenges over the past 65 years – speaks to our collective resolve and the understanding that our strength lies in our unity and diversity,” she stated.
The former Minister of Finance described Nigeria’s current leadership state as a burden on the people but warned that despair and resignation were not options.
She maintained that citizens must continue to hope and demand accountability from leaders to achieve meaningful change.
“It would be a double tragedy for a people who have endured years of misrule to now surrender hope for their country. We must remember that meaningful change will only come when we, as citizens, rise to hold leaders accountable – an obligation that cannot be fulfilled through resignation or despair,” she said.
Senator Usman further called on those in positions of power to govern with empathy, justice, and transparency, stressing that no nation can achieve true development without deliberately prioritising the welfare of its citizens.
She concluded by reaffirming her belief in Nigeria’s resilience and capacity to overcome its present challenges, noting that “there will surely be joy in the morning” if leaders and citizens commit themselves to rebuilding the nation.
