Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has emphasised the need for Nigerians to unite for the country’s growth and progress, irrespective of their religious differences and ethnic nationalities.
The governor stated this on Wednesday at the 65th anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s Independence, which was held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasigba, Ibadan. He charged Nigerians to suppress tendencies that divide the nation and focus on things that lift it up.
According to him, the country must learn from India and China, whose economies are thriving despite their large populations and many differences.
Speaking on the theme “Unity and Rebuilding,” Makinde, who was represented by the deputy governor, Barr Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, said that Nigerians must be united and keep hope alive to achieve the best for the country.
Makinde congratulated the people of Oyo State and Nigerians for the opportunity to witness another Independence Day celebration, noting that the country still has many years ahead to rebuild and correct past mistakes.
He said: “I want to, first of all, congratulate everyone in Nigeria for witnessing the 65th anniversary of the country’s independence today, 1st of October.
“It is a fantastic day, an amazing day in the history and honour of Nigeria, because it typifies our independence. And, you can talk of autonomy, in all ramifications, economic, psychological, mental, and even bodily independence.
“So, to come together on this day to observe independence is a real privilege for all of us.
“Secondly, you would observe that this year’s Independence Day theme is unity and rebuilding. That tells all Nigerians that we need to emphasise unity amongst ourselves.
“We must be united, because united we stand, divided we fall. So, we must stand united to make progress in Nigeria.”
