Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite the numerous challenges confronting it, as the nation marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.
Governor Otti in his nationwide broadcast, congratulated Nigerians for sustaining the dream of independence over the past six and half decades of existence and reminded citizens that patriotism remains crucial to national survival.
The Governor acknowledged that many Nigerians have, at different times felt disillusioned by the nation’s trajectory, but insisted that temporary frustrations must not be mistaken for permanent disengagement.
“Ours is far from being a perfect union, but this day presents us an excellent opportunity to look back with pride at how far we have come, and then resolve as one people, united in common destiny, that the best of our years is in the future, not in the glory of the past, nor the frustrations of the present.
“Many of us have had calls to feel disappointed with Nigeria and the trajectory it has taken over the last few decades, but we must never mistake momentary discontent with lifetime disconnection.
“We are a nation of patriots, so even when we openly announce our dissatisfaction with the state of affairs deep in our hearts, we love our nation and wish the best for it”, Governor Otti said
He argued that Nigeria holds a unique responsibility to inspire the global black community, pointing out that the country’s success or failure shapes international perceptions of the African race.
Governor Otto identified corruption, tribalism, religious bigotry and suspicion as some of the destructive tendencies that have slowed the nations progress and urged Nigerians to replace them with collective resolve and responsibility.
“We have failed on several scores, and at other points simply wobbled when we could have moved with decisive intent.
“Mistakes have been made, but the good thing is that yet another beautiful opportunity has been offered to us, to start afresh, to rise to the noble ideals of the independence movement, and cast aside the inhibitions that have perennially kept us out of the table of greatness. These include tribal and religious triumphalism, corruption, and behavioural tendencies that raise suspicion and undermine public trust.
“We are invited to forego the culture of finger-pointing and collectively come to terms with the truth that we all have a country to build”, Governor Otti emphasised.
The Governor further called on leaders at all levels of society to take responsibility for shaping the country’s future, noting that leadership is not restricted to politicians alone.
“The task of reimagining Nigeria is not exclusively for those in public offices or persons of influence. It is for all of us”, Governor Otti said.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes, including soldiers, policemen and other security operatives who sacrificed their lives for national stability, as well as citizens whose dreams were cut short by tragedies in the course of the country’s history and urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from their courage.
Governor Otti who charged Nigerians to rise above past mistakes and dedicate themselves to building a future of fairness, patriotism and progress, also used the opportunity to thank Abians for their resilience and commitment to the Nigerian project.
