First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Remi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to join hands in building a stronger and more united country as the nation marks its 65th Independence anniversary.
In a message titled “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation”, the First Lady urged citizens to embrace sacrifice and patriotism, stressing that the responsibility of nation-building rests on everyone.
Quoting the words of Lebanese-American poet Gebran Khalil Gebran from his 1925 essay “The New Frontier”, Mrs Tinubu drew a distinction between those who demand from their country and those who contribute to its progress.
“Are you a politician, asking what your country can do for you, or a zealous one, asking what you can do for your country? If you are the first, then you are a parasite; if the second, then you are an oasis in a desert,” she cited.
The First Lady also recalled the famous words of former U.S. President John F. Kennedy in his January 20, 1961 inaugural address, urging Nigerians to reflect on the spirit of service and duty.
“Let us all play our part to build the Nigeria we all want to see. Your sacrifice will never be in vain. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary,” she said.
Senator Tinubu concluded her message with a prayer for the country: “God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
