Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 election, has urged Nigerians to be ready to bring the nation back from a state of uncertainty to one of shared safety.
In his message on Saturday, the former vice president noted that the 63rd anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence Day came at a time when the nation is experiencing a turning point in many facets of its social and political landscape.
According to him, Nigeria’s political independence came about 63 years ago on the promise of great prosperity and the idea of social justice.
According to Atiku, “As a country, we have continued to struggle to realize the aspirations of our founding fathers in upholding the promises of shared prosperity and social justice.
“We have experienced great moments when the flag of our beloved country flew high on the international stage through the industry of our sportsmen and women, the prolific distinction of our academia, and the top-notch artistry of Nigerian talents in the international music scene,” he said.
According to Atiku, the nation’s celebration of a brighter future is inspired by the skills and tenacity of young Nigerians who have refused to give up on their nation.
In the struggle for talent and skills that drive the global economy, he acknowledged that the youthful energy of Nigeria is a powerful force.
He said, “That success – the gallantry of our youth – is the primal element of what we celebrate today as a nation.
“Therefore, for me, the challenge before us all is in ensuring that the political leadership in the country that we call home should be worthy of our pride as a people and not of telling embarrassment.
“Our democracy has triumphed so far due to the fidelity of our conviction that a democracy when properly nurtured, should bring out the best in us and of us.
“As Nigerians, we are all not unfamiliar with the hardships in the economy, security, and other vital aspects of our society.
“While I enjoin us all to submit our strengths in faith to the Almighty God, we must be prepared to do our best to pull the country back from this point of uncertainty to a place of common safety.”
