Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has urged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s 66th Independence anniversary next week with gratitude to the Lord for the milestones so far.
Nigeria gained her independence from colonial Britain on October 1, 1960 when the First Republic kicked off with the first indigenous civilian government headed by the departed Alhaji Tafawa Balewa as Prime Minister.
Aiyedatiwa made the call at a Jumat Service held at the Central Mosque in Akure on Friday, as part of activities to commemorate this year’s Independence Day celebration.
Represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, the governor said this year’s Independence Day must be a time to reflect on the country’s journey, appreciate the progress made so far and project into the future.
According to him, “Independence Day is more than a date on the calendar, it is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices of those who came before us and of the responsibility entrusted to our generation.
His words, “We must mark this anniversary with gratitude for how far we have come, while placing our trust in Allah and looking ahead with faith, hope and renewed commitment to the work that lies ahead of us”.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to serving the people “with fairness, responsibility and compassion”.
The governor thanked religious and traditional leaders for their support for the president, charging them to continue to “promote peace, tolerance and responsible citizenship”
He called on political actors, young people and other stakeholders to approach the next election with the fear of God and consideration for the collective aspirations of the people.
“As we gradually approach another season of elections, we must allow maturity and tolerance to guide our conduct. Political differences must not be allowed to destroy the bonds that unite us as families, neighbours, communities and citizens” the governor admonished.
In his sermon, Grand Imam of Akure Empire, Alhaji Abdulkareem Yayi Akorede, stressed the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence in moving the country forward.
While appreciating the president and Governor Aiyedatiwa for the progress recorded so far, the Grand Imam advised political leaders to intensify their efforts at delivering dividends of democracy to the people.
On his part, the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, thanked the government for its support for the traditional institution, as he appreciated the Muslim community for cooperating with the palace to engender peaceful coexistence.
The Deji was accompanied by his High chiefs and Olus to the mosque as part of activities to celebrate the 2026 ULEFUNTA Day in Akure Kingdom.
The Jumat Service was attended by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Commissioners for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alh. Amidu Takuro; Women’s Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Bosede Osemaye and the Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Adekola Falohun, among others.
