Nigeria at 66: We must continue to believe in the country -FCC Boss Omidiran

By Jude Opara

As Nigeria marks her 66th independence anniversary, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Hon. Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion to renew their faith in the country, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

Omidiran in her 66th Independence Day message through the FCC Spokesperson, Ademola Lawrence, described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, but a moment that provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation that holds a sense of belonging for every citizen.

She said the federal character principle particularly remains important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the country.

She said; “Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development”.

According to the FCC boss, government institutions at all levels must remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, even as she urged the citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and peaceful coexistence.

“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.

Omidiran who also described the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future urged them to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures.

“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.

The FCC boss reaffirmed the commitment of her agency to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the country.

She wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Omidiran added, “Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part.

“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she concluded.