By Francis Wilfred
ABUJA, Nigeria – As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on citizens to embrace a shared responsibility in building a greater nation.
Speaking at a World Press Conference on Tuesday to commemorate the anniversary, Akume said Nigeria’s journey has been marked by triumphs and trials, but the spirit of the nation remains unbroken.
“We have endured challenges in governance, economy, security, and social cohesion. Our true strength lies in our capacity to consistently rise after every storm, rebuild after every setback, and forge ahead with resilience and faith in our destiny as a great nation,” he stated.
Akume emphasized that the theme “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation” reflects the collective responsibility of citizens, not just government. He noted that youth and elders, men and women, public servants and entrepreneurs, farmers and professionals, military personnel, traders, artisans, and Nigerians in the diaspora all share in the task of national development.
Highlighting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Akume described it as a framework for national rebirth, inclusivity, and sustainable progress. He said the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation plays a critical role in ensuring policy coordination, inter-ministerial synergy, and effective implementation of the President’s priorities.
“Already, we are witnessing positive results. Inflationary pressures are beginning to ease, foreign investments are showing renewed interest, job creation initiatives are expanding opportunities for our youth, and social intervention programmes are cushioning the effects of reforms on vulnerable groups,” he noted.
The SGF commended President Tinubu for his bold leadership and reaffirmed the Federal Executive Council’s commitment to effective governance. He also urged citizens to set aside divisions and work together to achieve a Nigeria where unity prevails over division, peace over conflict, and opportunities outweigh despair.
“At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead. Let all hands truly be on deck for a greater, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
