By Ngozi Nwankwo
Ahead of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has appealed to citizens to keep hope alive and work towards the realization of the objective of our founding fathers in seeking freedom for our country.
In his independence anniversary message to Nigerians, Director-General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, commended citizens for their patience and perseverance in the face of challenges noting that tough economic policies being implemented by the government are necessary for the realization of the promising and glorious future which “our leaders fought for.”
Issa-Onilu said the work of building Nigeria is an on-going effort and all inclusive which require the contribution of all citizens irrespective of social, economic and political orientation.
He implored citizens to reflect on the efforts of the founding fathers and draw from the inspirations of our national heroes in the effort to build a great nation that we will all be proud of, insisting that better days are ahead.
“At 64, Nigeria is still a work in progress. Everybody should be part of it. The dream of our founding fathers is for us to be free and free indeed. We need to make Nigeria really independent, not just politically but even socially and economically,” he said.
Issa-Onilu emphasized the need for all citizens to come together irrespective of their tribal, religious, cultural and political affiliations and deploy such differences and diversity as strength for the growth and development of this country.
While urging citizens to observe this year’s independence anniversary in accordance with its theme, “Reflecting on the Past, Inspiring the Future.” he felicitated called for continued prayers for the country to overcome its problems and move into a new era of glory and economic liberty.