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Tag: Nigeria at 65

  • Nigeria @65: Claims of Progress Are Deceptive – Activist Ukegbu

    Nigeria @65: Claims of Progress Are Deceptive – Activist Ukegbu

    A social rights activist, Comrade Okechukwu Keshi Ukegbu, has dismissed claims by some political leaders that Nigeria is making progress at 65 years of independence, describing such assertions as “deceitful and defeatist.” Ukegbu, a former Secretary of the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Abia State branch, made the remarks while reacting to statements from political figures during Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations.“

    Any claims that Nigeria is making progress should undergo serious psychiatric examination,” he said. “What’s the basis of such unfounded judgment? Is it a healthcare system operating at its lowest ebb, or the recurrent insecurity that refuses to abate, reincarnating like the character ‘Abiku’ in Wole Soyinka’s poem?”

    The activist challenged proponents of such claims to provide tangible evidence of progress, stressing that rhetoric without substance only serves to mislead the public.He further criticized political leaders for engaging in what he termed “useless rhetoric” designed to divert attention from pressing national challenges.

    Ukegbu blamed the plight of the Nigerian masses on what he described as the docility and gullibility of citizens, noting that the failure to question authority or build strong accountability platforms has enabled leaders to “hold the people hostage.”

  • 65th Independence: Kano Speaker Falgore Urges Unity, Collaboration for National Development

    65th Independence: Kano Speaker Falgore Urges Unity, Collaboration for National Development

    By Jabiru Hassan

    The Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, has congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, calling for greater collaboration and collective efforts toward national development.In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai, on Wednesday, Falgore reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence, describing it as a mix of challenges and opportunities. He noted that with proper vision and strategic planning, the country could achieve a brighter future.The Speaker emphasized that Independence Day serves as a reminder of the courage and foresight of Nigeria’s founding fathers, who laid the foundation for a united, sovereign, and democratic nation.

    “Sixty-five years on, despite challenges, Nigeria remains a country of over 230 million people, mostly young, energetic, and forward-looking. This is a unique asset that many nations do not possess,” he stated.

    Falgore urged Nigerians to move beyond lamentations of missed opportunities, stressing the need to fight corruption and harness the nation’s abundant human and material resources to achieve development. He reaffirmed the Kano State House of Assembly’s commitment to its legislative and oversight roles, noting its zero tolerance for corruption and dedication to improving the lives of the people.

    On behalf of the Assembly, Falgore extended warm felicitations to Governor Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, the people of Kano State, and all Nigerians, urging citizens to work together for unity, justice, and prosperity.

    “May this anniversary inspire us all to rise above divisions and work together for a prosperous nation where justice, equity, and development prevail. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria,” he said.

  • FG Cancels Independence Parade, Retains Other Anniversary Events

    By Francis Wilfred

    ABUJA, Nigeria – The Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the Independence Anniversary parade earlier scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day on Wednesday, October 1, 2025.

    The government said the decision does not diminish the importance of the milestone celebration and assured that other programmes lined up for the anniversary would proceed as planned.

    According to a statement signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s independence “with dignity and enthusiasm.”

    “The Federal Government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation and appreciates the understanding, support, and cooperation of Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests,” the statement read.

    The government further urged citizens to continue supporting the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, aimed at building a greater and more prosperous Nigeria.

  • Nigeria @ 65: Sen. Akume Urges Shared Responsibility for Nation-Building

    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.

  • Nigeria @ 65: Hazras Charity Foundation Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting the Vulnerable

    By Jabiru Hassan

    ABUJA, Nigeria – As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, Hazras Charity Foundation (HCF), a leading non-profit humanitarian organization, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable groups across the country.

    In a statement issued by Jabiru Hassan, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the National Chairman, the Foundation congratulated Nigerians on attaining another milestone of unity, peace, and progress.

    The Foundation emphasized its dedication to improving livelihoods, fostering compassion, and promoting social cohesion through targeted humanitarian interventions.

    Delivering the Independence message, the National Chairman, Dr. Abdullateef Abdulkadir, alongside the Chairlady of the Board of Trustees, Hajiya Lauratu Ado Diso, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future despite prevailing challenges.

    “We are confident that Nigeria will continue to thrive as one united nation because Nigerians cherish peace, progress, and unity. In this regard, Hazras Charity Foundation will continue to extend more support to the less privileged, without bias or discrimination,” they affirmed.

    Under the leadership of Dr. Abdulkadir, HCF has implemented several impactful initiatives over the years, providing relief to vulnerable individuals and families affected by disasters and social challenges. These efforts, the Foundation noted, highlight its role as one of Nigeria’s most people-centered charity organizations.