The Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, has praised the resilience of Nigerians in keeping faith with the nation despite the frustrations they have had to endure as a result of the nation’s lack of progress over the last six decades.
The governor, in his goodwill message to mark the nation’s 62nd, independence anniversary, however, noted that despite the nation’s reeling from myriad challenges ranging from insecurity since her return to democratic rule in 1999, it had built one of the most robust democracies in Africa.
According to him, it was not all despair as the return to democratic rule had expanded individual freedom with citizen participation emboldening by the day.
He said, “Today, we celebrate 62 years of nationhood. We celebrate the return of our liberties, the restoration of our dignity and the democratic resilience we have built over the last 6 decades. I congratulate all Nigerians for keeping faith with the nation.
“Reeling out of an unfortunate battle with Insurgents, kidnappings and armed banditry should give every citizen cause for concern,” he added.
Fintiri urged Nigerians to take advantage of the ballot to change their fortunes come 2023.
He said, “The battles for security, economic prosperity and the security of our people’s future lies ahead and remains to be won. So many years lies ahead of us to make the future we want starting from today. If we set forth at dawn, we can make this journey before dust.
“I believe in a new Nigeria going into elections in 2023. Nigeria would surmount its present challenges, and emerge stronger. But it will not just happen until we rise up to make the real change that Nigeria has been yearning for through the ballot.”
He said it was important the nation did not forget those who had paid the price for the country’s social progress, particularly the founding fathers and security agencies, who made the foundations of liberty in Nigeria secure.
“As we enjoy the fruits of the Labour of the founding Fathers of Nigeria, let us not forget those who made the foundations of liberty in Nigeria secure.
“I wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the members of our security agencies. They have successfully guided the destiny of our Nation through trying conditions.
“Their discipline, devotion to duty and loyalty to the country have been tested and proved beyond doubt. I trust that they will keep it up having come a long way partnering them towards restoring peace in the state. History will indelibly record this Nation’s gratitude to their exemplary leadership, dedication, statesmanship and courage.”
