Nigeria At 60: Salute To Our Fatherland & Time For Sober Reflection -Sen. Bassey.
Senator Bassey Albert (OBA)
Chairman, Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources Upstream and Senator representing Akwa Ibom North East Senatorial District.
The dawn of our anniversary today as a sovereign nation is quite evocative. It resonates with delight the memorable emergence of our dear country, Nigeria, amongst the comity of independent nations on that historic day of October 1, 1960.
The rise to self-rule, which ended British colonialism, effectively placed on Nigerians the leadership of Nigeria. It is therefore a mileage worth celebrating as our nation attains the diamond age of sixty. Our rejoicing is reinforced by our unquantifiable accomplishments and triumphs despite glimpses of multifaceted challenges. I join my fellow compatriots to offer gratitude to the Almighty God for His immense act of benevolence upon our nation since our independence.
May I, on behalf of my wife and constituents of Akwa Ibom North-East Senatorial District, heartily felicitate His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all Nigerians on this momentous occasion of our 60 years of nationhood.
I also convey my salutations to my dear brother and Governor, His Excellency, Mr.UDOM Emmanuel, and the people of Akwa Ibom State on this landmark celebration.
Let me pay immeasurable tributes to our county’s pathfinders, heroes, and successive leadership for the struggle which led to the independence of our country and for their inputs for the survival and development of our dear nation – Nigeria.
As we celebrate, let us ponder on the dire lessons of our history, using this period as a time for sober reflection. Let us hold on to the fact that “Though tribes and tongues may differ, in brotherhood we stand”. As the giant of Africa, we must arise as compatriots and reinvent the Nigeria of our dream, where “peace and justice shall reign”.
The roadmap is for all leaders in the various strata of our society vis-à-vis the government, formal and informal sectors, to unite and be conscientious in conduct and service to ensure a healthier and prosperous nation. That we successfully overcame a daunting 30-month civil war, infers that with a unity of purpose, sincerity, and total commitment, we shall equally overpower and put behind us the seemingly intractable cases of insurgencies, and other avalanches of criminalities like banditry and kidnapping.
Agenda 2050 as put forward by President Muhammadu Buhari as the new development plan to lift 100 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030 is a laudable vision. Nigeria can only be better developed by Nigerians.
Our collective resolve to enthrone peace, tranquility, and good governance will ensure that the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain. May the Almighty God continue to bless our land and people, as well as grant our leaders the wisdom to direct and guide aright at all times.
Happy independence celebration to all Nigerians!