As Nigeria marks 64th Independence Anniversary, chief of staff to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Christopher Tarka, has offered a heartfelt reflection on the country’s journey toward nationhood.
Speaking with a deep sense of patriotism, Tarka, a child of the 1960s, underscored the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by previous generations to achieve peace and unity.
“When I celebrate Nigeria at 64, I see a nation born from the diversity of cultures, languages, peoples, religions, bonded together to become one great nation, growing stronger year after year,” he said.
Tarka emphasised that unity remains the cornerstone of Nigeria’s progress.
He noted that Independence Day serves as a reminder of the country’s shared history and its collective future.
“Independence reminds me of a people that came together to form one nation. We need to sit together, discuss issues affecting our nation’s growth, and focus on development.”
Tarka’s reflections came against the backdrop of a national celebration that included a unique tribute from a group of patriotic bikers who have raised the Nigerian flag for ten consecutive years. These bikers, who are former military personnel, captains of industry, and young Nigerians, represent the diverse spirit of the country.
“Their commitment is inspiring. They embody the spirit of Nigeria. Together, they represent the diverse potential of our nation,” Tarka said.
As Nigeria continues its developmental journey, Tarka stressed the importance of constructive dialogue between the government and its citizens.
He stated, “Government welcomes constructive criticism, but what we need is to sit together and engage in meaningful discussions.”
He called for open, honest conversations about the challenges facing the country, noting that such dialogue is essential to building a better future.
Tarka also praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, which he believes gives Nigerians an opportunity to actively participate in the country’s development.
“I don’t see myself as part of the government, but as a Nigerian in government, working to implement policies that will help this nation grow. We are partners in development with our fellow citizens, and that is the essence of governance.”
Tarka humbly acknowledged his own contributions to Nigeria’s progress, reflecting on his political upbringing and career spanning more than three decades in mining, politics, and business.
Now, as a senior official in the office of the secretary to the government of the Federation, he focuses on advancing the Renewed Hope agenda, particularly by engaging Nigerians in this vision.
“One of our key objectives is to engage with Nigerians and help them understand and participate in this vision. I believe the bikers, through their efforts, are also helping to spread awareness about this agenda among their members.”
Adding to the narrative of unity, retired Captain Owen, a member of the biking community, shared his personal experience of how Nigerians from diverse backgrounds come together in unexpected ways.
Recalling a time he was lost in Katsina State, Owen reflected on how a group of Fulani herders came to his aid despite the language barrier.
He credited their assistance to the universal connection of biking.
“Biking has a way of bringing people together, regardless of background. “In the biking community, we have people from all walks of life—whether Muslim, Christian, or others. We are one big family. If one person rises, we all rise, and if someone falls, we all come together to ensure they get back on their feet,” Owen said.
For Owen and the rest of the biking community, this spirit of unity transcends their group and speaks to the broader Nigerian experience.
He hoped that more people would recognise the significance of fighting for unity in the face of challenges, inspired by the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.
“This spirit of unity is what we are projecting to this great nation. We’ve come too far to fail, and with the Renewed Hope agenda of the current administration, we all must play our part,” Owen said.
As Nigeria reflects on its 64 years of independence, the message from both Tarka and Owen is clear: unity, dialogue, and a collective commitment to progress will ensure that the country continues to grow stronger, year after year. The bikers’ celebration, Tarka’s reflections, and the administration’s agenda converge on a single point: the power of togetherness in shaping Nigeria’s future.
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