Nigeria at 66: Musa Urges Nigerians to Unite, Renew Commitment to Nation-Building

By Ladan Muhammad Nasidi

Sen. Sani Musa, representing Niger East Senatorial District and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, has congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, calling for renewed commitment to national unity and nation-building.In a statement marking the anniversary, Musa urged citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence and draw lessons from the challenges and achievements recorded over the years.He recalled the historic events of Oct. 1, 1960, when the British Union Jack was lowered and the Green-White-Green flag was hoisted, marking Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule and the beginning of its journey as a sovereign nation.According to him, although the country’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, Nigerians should remain proud of the progress made while learning from past mistakes.“The journey has been eventful and the challenges enormous. But we can be proud of the progress that we have made, draw lessons from the missteps and rededicate ourselves to our historic mission of nation-building. We should never abandon that mission,” he said.Musa said Nigeria’s founding fathers confronted considerable difficulties arising from the country’s diversity but chose to see the differences among its people as a potential source of strength.He said their vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria remained a heritage that present generations must protect and pass on to future generations.“The founding fathers got nothing on a silver platter. Their dream of a glorious future for Nigeria inspired them in confronting the challenges of their time,” he said.Musa urged Nigerians to confront current national challenges with the same determination demonstrated by the country’s founding fathers.He also called on political, religious and traditional leaders, as well as opinion leaders, to promote unity and use democratic channels to address grievances and national issues.“Nigeria belongs to all its citizens, not to some more than the others,” he said.The senator urged Nigerians to remain committed to the country, stressing the need for collective efforts toward strengthening national security, unity and prosperity.He wished Nigerians a peaceful and meaningful 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to keep faith with the nation and contribute to its continued development.