Nigeria At 65: Unite In Building The Country, Senator Natasha Tells Nigerians

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has called on Nigerians to reflect deeply on the journey of the nation, urging all to honour the sacrifices of the past, embrace the realities of the present, and unite in building the Nigeria envisioned by the country’s founding heroes.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, Senator Natasha celebrated the resilience of Nigerians and reaffirmed her belief in the unbreakable spirit of the nation.

“On this 65th anniversary of our nation’s independence, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating not only the birth of our great country but also the resilience of our people who, time and again, have proven that the Nigerian spirit is unbreakable,” she stated.

Describing Independence Day as more than a ceremonial event, Senator Natasha reminded Nigerians of the courage and vision of the founding fathers and mothers who fought for a free, just, and united nation.

“Their courage reminds us that progress is built upon the foundations laid by those before us. Today, we must honour their memory not with words alone, but by carrying forward their vision of a nation that truly works for all.”

Addressing the current challenges facing the country—including economic hardship, insecurity, and inequality—she emphasized the importance of acknowledging the nation’s difficulties while celebrating its strides, particularly in innovation, agriculture, technology, and the arts.

“To embrace the present is to acknowledge both our challenges and our triumphs… We must recognize the power of today, for it is in the present that we craft the legacy of tomorrow.”

Looking forward, the senator urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to the values of justice, equity, and unity, stressing that national development can only be achieved through collective effort, accountable governance, and citizen participation.

“The Nigeria our heroes envisioned is not one divided by ethnicity, religion, or politics, but one united by shared values… Building such a Nigeria requires a government accountable to its people, a citizenry committed to nation-building, and leadership rooted in service and integrity.”

Senator Natasha concluded with a message of hope and national pride, calling on all Nigerians to rise above divisions and build a future worthy of the country’s immense potential.

“Sixty-five years on, the task before us is clear: to transform our vast potential into tangible progress, to ensure no Nigerian is left behind, and to pass on to future generations a country worthy of their pride… Today, let us celebrate not just how far we have come, but also the brighter future we can build together.”