‘Nigeria A Work In Progress’, SGF Akume Says At 65th Independence Anniversary

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, on Monday admitted that Nigeria at 65 remained a “work in progress,” urging citizens to show patience and play their part as the country grapples with economic and social challenges.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on the activities to mark the nation’s 65th Independence anniversary, Akume said the nation’s journey since 1960 had been defined by “triumphs and trials,” but stressed that resilience had kept the country together despite repeated setbacks.

“Our journey from 1960 to this moment has been marked by triumphs and trials, moments of joy and of testing, but through it all, the Nigerian spirit has remained unbroken,” he said. “At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead.”

The SGF, who anchored his message on the anniversary theme: “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” said building a stronger country was not the duty of government alone.

He listed youths, women, professionals, farmers, teachers, military and paramilitary officers, traders, artisans, and Nigerians in the diaspora among those who must join hands in the task of nation-building.

“All hands must indeed be on deck for us to realise the Nigeria we envision,” he charged.

Akume defended the economic policies of the Tinubu-led administration, describing them as “bold, sometimes difficult, but necessary steps” to stabilise the economy, attract investment, and lay the foundation for long-term growth.

According to Akume, inflationary pressures were already beginning to ease, investor confidence returning, and social programmes being strengthened to cushion the effects of the reforms on vulnerable groups.

“These gains, though modest, are a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda is on course, and with perseverance, greater dividends will be realised,” he noted.

The SGF commended President Bola Tinubu’s “bold leadership” under the Renewed Hope Agenda, which he described as a framework for national rebirth and sustainable progress, particularly for the youth.

On the updates on the programme for the anniversary, Akume said the grand finale of the National Campus Debate will take place on Tuesday while the Independence Day Presidential Broadcast was scheduled for Wednesday, October 1.

Akume also commended the media for its role in shaping national narratives, fostering unity, and deepening democracy.

He called on citizens to put aside divisions and support government’s efforts to make the country stronger.