Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has joined Nigerians at home and abroad in celebrating the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Epe Insights reports that Hamzat, in a message shared to mark the anniversary, reflected on Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence and called for continued commitment to the nation’s development.
Nigeria attained independence on October 1, 1960, and is marking 66 years as an independent nation in 2026. The Federal Government declared October 1 a public holiday to commemorate the anniversary.
Hamzat noted that the country had experienced different stages of growth and development over the decades.
He said Nigerians had continued to demonstrate resilience and determination while navigating various challenges.
According to him, the progress recorded over the years reflects the contributions of Nigerians across different sectors and communities.
Hamzat stressed that building the Nigeria citizens desire requires collective participation.
He said every Nigerian has a role to play in contributing to the country’s future and strengthening the values that hold the nation together.
The Deputy Governor also emphasised the importance of how citizens treat one another.
He noted that respect, responsibility and shared values remain important elements in building a stronger society.
Hamzat urged Nigerians to remain committed to values that can promote unity, cooperation and national development.
He also encouraged citizens to consider the kind of country they want to leave for future generations.
According to him, the responsibility of building a better Nigeria should not be left to government alone.
He said individuals, families, organisations and institutions all have responsibilities in shaping the country’s future.
The Deputy Governor acknowledged that there is still considerable work to be done in the nation’s development journey.
He, however, expressed confidence in what Nigerians can achieve when they work together with a common purpose.
Hamzat’s message focused on collective responsibility and the need for citizens to contribute positively to national development.
He encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful while continuing to support efforts aimed at moving the country forward.
The Deputy Governor also urged citizens to maintain their belief in Nigeria and its potential.
He said the country’s diversity, human resources and determination provide a foundation for continued progress.
The message comes as Nigerians across the country mark the 66th Independence Anniversary with reflections on the nation’s journey since 1960.
The Federal Government had earlier announced that this year’s celebration would be low-key, with activities designed to reflect on Nigeria’s journey and the contributions of its founding figures.
The anniversary programme included religious services, a public lecture and a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on October 1.
The Federal Government has also described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s progress and renew commitment to national development.
Hamzat’s Independence Day message similarly placed emphasis on the role of citizens in shaping the country’s future.
He called for continued efforts to build a nation that future generations can be proud of.
The Lagos State Deputy Governor encouraged Nigerians to see national development as a shared responsibility.
He noted that progress can be strengthened when citizens work together and place the broader interests of the country at the centre of their actions.
Hamzat also highlighted the importance of maintaining positive values within society.
He urged Nigerians to uphold principles that encourage mutual respect and responsible citizenship.
As the country marks another year of independence, the Deputy Governor’s message provides a call for renewed commitment to Nigeria’s development.
He expressed confidence that collective efforts can help the nation achieve greater progress.
Hamzat also encouraged Nigerians not to lose sight of the possibilities ahead despite the challenges confronting the country.
He said continued cooperation and purposeful action remain important to achieving the Nigeria citizens desire.
The Deputy Governor concluded his message by extending his goodwill to Nigerians celebrating the anniversary at home and around the world.
He wished the Federal Republic of Nigeria a happy 66th Independence Anniversary.
Hamzat also offered prayers for the country, asking for God’s continued blessings upon Nigeria and its people.
His message adds to the series of goodwill messages from public officials and institutions as Nigeria commemorates 66 years of independence.
As Nigerians celebrate, attention remains focused on the country’s development journey and the shared responsibilities of citizens in shaping its future.
