Today marks 66 years since Nigeria regained freedom from the colonial rule.
The journey so far has been rough due to challenges of military interventions, insecurity, corruption, bad governance, nepotism, economic crises, religious and ethnic sentiments but there is hope since the country remains united.
At 66, the country has recorded tremendous achievements in the areas of education, science, technology, agriculture, business, sports, infrastructure development and the creative industries.
However, the central promise of independence is yet to be fulfilled as citizens are still groaning over corruption, inflation, kidnapping, insurgency, farmers/herders clashes, Boko Haram, bad governance, electoral violence, banditry, terrorism, communal violence and other forms of criminality.
The challenges should not overwhelm the nation but rather serve as foundation for building institutions that work and policies that endure beyond individual governments. The country should be built and defended through competent leadership, accountable institutions and sustained public pressure.
Nigeria cannot claim meaningful freedom while citizens live under constant fear. The response must go beyond military operations. Protecting citizens must be the first duty of the government, not a recurring promise after each attack.
At 66, Nigeria must reject the idea that nation-building is a completed project. It is a continuing obligation.
We therefore appeal to leadership of the country to invest more in education, agriculture, healthcare, infrastructure, science, technology and innovation.
Young Nigerians need real opportunities to develop their talents and participate in the economy, while women need greater access to economic and political power.
Small businesses should be provided an environment in which they can survive, expand and create jobs.
Nigeria needs institutions that function, public officials who are accountable and policies that are implemented consistently.
We urge citizens to always perform their civic responsibilities and demand accountability, obey the law, reject corruption and strengthen their communities.
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary today, all hands must be on deck to build a country where citizens are safe, opportunities are open and national resources serve the public good. The unfinished task is to turn the promise of self-government into the reality of freedom for all Nigerians.
