Tinubu, govs preach patriotism at 64th Independence Day parades

President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettimma, alongside other dignitaries, on Tuesday, observed the Independence Day Parade held at the forecourt of the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja.

Many governors, in their respective states, also held Independence Day parades.

Others made statewide broadcasts to the people, urging peace, unity, tolerance and patriotism to build a better country.

Tinubu arrived at the venue of the parade at about 10:10 am in the company of his wife, Oluremi, and was ushered onto the saluting dais for the national salute and the national anthem.
Afterwards, he inspected the Guard of Honour led by Lt. Col. Moshood Yusuf and sat to observe military drills, a colourful parade and a presidential change of guards performed by officers and men of the Brigade of Guards.

This was followed by the special presidential change and consequent inspection of the quarter guards parade between the outgoing and the incoming guards’ commanders.

Tuesday’s Independence Day parade also featured a combined Armed Forces colour patrol, which displayed the national colour and the regimental colours of the Nigerian Army, the Navy and the Air Force. Thereafter, the guard’s brigade platoon performed special silent drills.
The ceremony also featured a cultural display by different troupes from the country’s six geopolitical zones, highlighting the strength and diversity of the Nigerian people.

The cultural display also exhibited collaboration by all regions to raise a life-size talking drum called the ‘national treasure.’

President Tinubu subsequently signed the anniversary register, releasing the white pigeons and cutting the anniversary cake.

The theme of this year’s anniversary is ‘Reflecting on the past, inspiring the future.’

Tuesday’s ceremony was Tinubu’s second Independence Day observance as President.

Although Eagle Square hosted such ceremonies in the past, the current administration moved the activities back to the Villa.

Announcing the development in October 2023, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the Independence Day anniversary would be observed low-key due to the tumultuous state of the economy.
In attendance on Tuesday were the Vice President’s wife, Nana Shettima, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, SGF, Akume, the National Security Adviser, Mr Nuhu Ribadu; Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, cabinet members, heads of paramilitary organisations, the Head of the National Intelligence Agency and the Director General of the Directorate of State Service and members of the diplomatic corps.

The Senate Majority Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, who spoke to State House correspondents afterwards, said the country’s progress would require the collective resolve of the various zones.

Bamidele said, “We all listened to Mr. President’s speech, and it was also good to be here, to be a part of this commemorative anniversary ceremony. The message, both from how the military parade was conducted and the cultural display by different cultural groups from different parts of the country, all pass a single message: not one geopolitical zone of this country can do it alone.

“It’s not about the South or the North. It’s not about the West or the East, but all of us, as Nigerians, must come together to make the difference that we need.

“The message from Mr President this morning was also very clear. Mr President recognised the fact that these times are trying times for Nigerians. He recognised the fact that, as much as possible, the level of resilience cannot be too much. And he reassured Nigerians that the government was on top through its socioeconomic policies. And I have no doubt, by the grace of God, that in another year, as I said before, we should be back here to tell a better story of the state of the Nigerian nation.”

In a statement issued by his Media Directorate on Monday, Bamidele also stressed the need for unity in confronting the socio-economic and political issues affecting the nation.

He highlighted that despite Nigeria’s 64 years of political independence and 110 years of existence as a unified entity, the country continued to face significant challenges.
He urged leaders to focus on what unites the nation rather than divisions along ethnic, political, and religious lines.

“At this trying time, we must decisively address what easily divides us to build a resilient federation that works for all,” Bamidele said.

Bamidele also underscored the importance of the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution at the National Assembly, describing it as an opportunity to reform Nigeria’s federal structure for greater efficiency and functionality.

He revealed that the assembly had received 37 fresh memoranda from various stakeholders nationwide, along with 16 constitution amendment bills inherited from the previous assembly.

Among the proposals under consideration are the establishment of state police, diaspora voting, financial autonomy for local governments, judicial independence, special seats for women in legislative bodies, and the creation of a National Council of Traditional Rulers.

Bamidele called for further participation from Nigerians, saying that all interests would be considered as the review process progressed, with public hearings scheduled to begin in January 2025.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, at the commemoration of the 64th Independence Day anniversary held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Akure, on Tuesday, asked Nigerians to inculcate virtues that projected honour, a sense of mission and purpose, national pride and undying patriotism.
“It is imperative that we become more statesmanlike in our conduct, both in public and private. Let us embrace nobler passions, dialogues and productive engagements that unite rather than divide us as citizens of this great country.

“Let us inculcate virtues that project honour, a sense of mission and purpose, national pride, sanctity and sacredness of our togetherness, pristine integrity, collective heroism and undying patriotism. We must refrain from escalating disruptive tendencies that portend hopelessness, despair and failure.”

As the state prepares for the governorship election in November, Aiyedatiwa urged the people to play the game according to the rules and be peaceful before, during and after the poll.

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, urged Nigerians to hold steadfast to the belief in the assured prosperous future of the country.

In a statement on Independence Day, he said, “My dear good people of Edo State, I join you in marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration, as we journey together on the path of building a strong, virile and prosperous nation.

“This is another day to celebrate our shared experience as compatriots of the world’s largest black nation, which has over time defied all odds in reinventing itself and showcasing the indomitable spirit of its various peoples.

“As a nation, we have grown stronger, are more united and have trudged together to overcome threats to our nation. Today, at 64, we have much to be thankful for, in the face of daunting global headwinds that have rocked many nations.
“It is imperative to restate our commitment to democracy even in the face of pressures from different interests that seek to set us back.”

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State restated that the security of the people remained a top priority.

He asked citizens to “hold fast to things that united us, rather than what divided us.”

He declared a six-month extension for the state’s Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery Transport Scheme, which has seen intra-city and inter-city transportation in state government-owned Omituntun Buses subsidised by more than half, noting that he had also directed that a similar subsidy be introduced on trucks for crop transportation across the state.

In his statewide broadcast on Tuesday, Makinde said, “My good people of Oyo State, today we celebrate another milestone in Nigeria’s history as we mark 64 years of nationhood.

”Our journey has been one of highs and lows. We have walked, crawled, run, stumbled and risen again. We have experienced moments of pride and moments of reflection. But above all, we have demonstrated unwavering resilience.

”Here in Oyo State, we have exemplified that same resilience by supporting our administration over the past five years as we moved from accelerated developments to sustainable developments, with a focus on moving the people of our dear state from poverty to prosperity.
”They say the darkest hour comes just before dawn. As we face these cloudy economic times, we must remember our resilient spirit, rest assured, the sun will rise.”

He said the increased security presence in the state was not to scare the people but to ensure their safety and guarantee a peaceful celebration.

“As we celebrate Nigeria at 64, let us not dwell on the difficulties of the present, instead let us use this period to reflect on what we can do differently so that the future of our nation will be better than the past. Let us focus on the real hope that lies ahead,” he said.

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, urged Nigerians to draw strength from their resilience and capacity to unite in the face of adversity in the country.

In his address at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, on Tuesday, to mark the 64th Independence anniversary, Sani stressed the significance of Nigeria’s independence, achieved on October 1, 1960.

He said the celebration was not only about the “freedom” achieved but rather the collective efforts that had brought the nation so far.

”We celebrate not just the freedom we have achieved, but the collective effort that has brought us thus far. We honour the struggle of our past, the sacrifices of our heroes, and the unwavering spirit of our people,” the governor said.
He stressed the importance of building bridges, fostering inclusivity, and nurturing hope while calling on Nigerians to work together to create a brighter future.

Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, expressed his commitment to the security of lives and property in the state.

In a statement by his Special Adviser Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor said, “As a responsible and responsive government, we have taken measures in collaboration with security agencies to protect the lives and property of our people by swiftly addressing any form of security challenges.
“I want to assure you that security will remain our top priority to ensure the continued enjoyment of relative peace in the state.”

Bala added, “Today, we have shown the world that, against all odds, we are not only able to govern ourselves but to understand our differences, respect each other’s values and unite towards developing our country despite our sociocultural heterogeneity.

“Since the attainment of independence in 1960, Nigeria has suffered serious setbacks in the political arena which seriously affected its political and economic growth. It is, however, gladdening that today democracy has found its roots in the country. The dividends of democracy are manifest and the citizens are happy.”

Mohammed commended Nigerians for their perseverance in the face of the current economic hardship which he said had made life unbearable.
“Let me reassure you that the palliative measures taken by both the state and federal governments to mitigate the hardship, through the provision of food and non-food items would be sustained. I, therefore, call on you to exercise more patience and cooperate with the government in its effort to bring succour to you all,” he said.

Governor Abba Yusuf called on Nigerians to emulate the sacrifices made by the forefathers to uplift the socio-economic development of the state.

Yusuf, speaking during the Independence Parade held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kofar Mata, Kano, said, “Our forefathers who struggled for Nigeria’s independence have sacrificed a lot, hence Nigerians should intensify collective efforts in ensuring that the labour of our forefathers shall never be  in vain.”

The governor promised more laudable projects for the public and restated the state of emergency on education, health and others.

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, renewed the call for all hands to be on deck to build a prosperous and stronger nation that could be the pride of all.

Speaking during the Independence anniversary held at the Arcade Ground, Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, he said the country had its fair share of socio-economic challenges to deal with, which he said were surmountable with the cooperation and support of the citizens.

“Today, Nigeria faces turbulent economic times. Global economic pressures, coupled with domestic challenges, have placed significant strain on our resources.
“Rising inflation, unemployment, and the cost of living have impacted the lives of many, creating anxiety about the future.

“These challenges are real and urgent, requiring immediate and sustained action. As citizens, this is a time for deep reflection and prayer for the continued progress and stability of our nation,” he said.

Abiodun said his administration aligned with the Federal Government’s efforts towards economic recovery as substantial efforts were being made to navigate the trying times.

He called for a return to the values of hard work, honesty, justice, equity and respect for authority.

Kogi State Governor, Usman Ododo, called for unity, faith, peace and progress of the country.

Reflecting on the sacrifices of national heroes and the challenges faced by the nation, Ododo highlighted the importance of recognising our past while working towards a brighter future.

In a statewide address on Tuesday, Ododo praised the resilience and strength of the Nigerian people in the face of adversity, while lauding the President for his bold and transformative reforms.
The governor stressed the need for patience and support as the country navigated through these reforms, highlighting the need for collective efforts to build a better Nigeria for all.

Citing the potential dangers posed by rising water levels in Rivers Niger and Benue, he called for vigilance and proactive measures to prevent loss of life and property.

Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, called on Nigerians to have their eyes on the national goals rather than the momentary pains occasioned by the prevailing economic reforms introduced by the Federal Government.

Otu was at the popular UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar, during the celebration of the Independence Day anniversary, as he defied the rain to stand in the dias to receive a salute from the police, other paramilitary organisations and participating schools in a march-past.

The governor admitted that the inconveniences in the nation were enormous but said the expected gains of the ongoing reforms far outweighed the pains.

He said what was required was perseverance, because there was light at the end of the tunnel, adding that the nation had come a long way and yet a progressing, sovereign and indivisible political entity.

Speaking of his leadership, he said, “I have developed the habit of evolving a consensus before taking major government decisions aimed at priming the state for political harmony and economic prosperity.”
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, on Tuesday, said, “I am upbeat that this country is destined for greatness. Together, we can achieve not just the dream of our fathers for Nigeria but surpass it as everyone plays his roles in his corners.”

He commended the President for his bold reforms and the palliative means to temper its initial fallouts on the people, including the efforts to boost food security and critical national infrastructure.

“This is being complemented at subnational levels with improved infrastructural development, investments in human capital development, and different economic initiatives and social protection measures designed to improve the living conditions of the people,” the statement said.

The Chairman of the Senate Committee on National Security and Intelligence, Shehu Buba, called on the President and Nigerian leaders to do more to alleviate the economic hardship in the country.

Buba, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, said both conventional and other avenues must constantly be mobilised in the journey to national rebirth, where the greatest happiness presented a challenge all must face head-on.

This, he said, would ensure that all and sundry feel the comfort of the promising tomorrow.

“As we celebrate Nigeria’s 64th independence amidst these very times, I encourage us especially the leaders to soberly reflect, and rededicate ourselves to the service of the nation and its great people while relating with the common man in a manner that encourages them to play their part.
“Gladly, it is noteworthy to observe that some of the policies of the government may have started yielding fruits but that should only serve as a further motivation for leaders to do more, such that the purchasing power of the common man and his access to basic facilities of life is improved,” he said.

A member of the House of Representatives, Akinlayo Kolawole, called for selfless service and sacrifices from Nigerian leaders to accelerate the needed rapid development of the country.

Kolawole, representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, said “The country’s development must be the collective agenda of all and sundry, irrespective of our political inclination and backgrounds.”

In a statement in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday on the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th Independence celebration, he called on all Nigerians “to continue to put Nigeria ahead of other personal agenda in our daily activities.

“The country, more than ever, needs selflessness, sacrifices and sincerity, especially by the leaders and politicians for the country to steadily move forward.”

The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagements, Sunday Asefon, reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to ensuring a brighter future for Nigerian students.

The former student leader spoke in a statement made available in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, on Tuesday on the occasion of the country’s 64th Independence anniversary.
He advised the students, saying, “Let us reinvigorate our faith and hope in the greatness of our nation and support the government of President Bola Tinubu in its painstaking decisions that will guarantee a better future for Nigeria’s today and generations unborn.”

A former Interim Administrator of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Dr Efiong Akwa, commended Nigerians for their steadfastness and peaceful disposition, even in the face of the current economic reality bedevilling the country.

He advocated for unity and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic nationalities in the country, for sustainable growth and development.

The former NDDC boss, in a statement he signed and issued in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday, described the current economic challenges as a springboard to usher in a brighter and friendly future.

Dr Akwa, a council member representing South/South in the National Council for Privatisation at the Presidency, said the current challenges would certainly usher in a new era of greatness in no distant future.

A former Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in Oyo State, Ayodeji Abass-Aleshinloye, urged Nigerians to work together for the progress and benefits of all and sundry.

Aleshinloye, in a statement by his media aide, Dipo Adegoke, in Ibadan, the state capital, said, “In the face of our challenges, there are still things to be thankful for as a nation.
“It is better to use this occasion to focus on the things that unite us while moving away from issues that drag us backwards in our quest to be a progressive nation.”

He urged Nigerians not to lose hope and faith in the progress of the country, expressing optimism that Nigerians would soon begin to experience the true benefits of democracy.

The Inter Party Advisory Council in Cross River State called on Nigerians to embrace peace, unity, tolerance and patriotism to build a better society.

In a statement signed by the Cross River State IPAC Chairman, Effiom Edet Okon and Secretary, Omari Fredrick Eje, IPAC said, all tiers of government should be decisive in the fight against corruption, to ensure that national resources were channelled to meet the needs of the people.

IPAC commended the political sagacity and tenacity of the purpose of the nation’s founding fathers and called on the people to rededicate themselves to the task of building a prosperous country.