Independence Day: Adesanya-Davies Calls for Unity and Hope as Nigeria Turns 66

Fellow Nigerians, at home and in the diaspora,

With joy in my heart and gratitude to Almighty God, I, H.E. Ambassador Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, on behalf of the United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC), my family, and my political family, warmly felicitate with President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Government and the good people of Nigeria on the occasion of our 66th Independence Day Anniversary.

Sixty-six years ago, on October 1st, 1960, our founding fathers – Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Sir Ahmadu Bello and other nationalists – dreamt of and fought for a free, united, and prosperous nation. Their labour and sacrifices must not be in vain.

REFLECTION AT 66:
At 66, Nigeria is no longer a child. We have come through civil war, military regimes, democratic struggles, economic booms and recessions. We have shown the world that we are a resilient, enterprising, and deeply spiritual people. We remain Africa’s largest economy, its most populous nation, and its beacon of hope.

Yet, we must honestly admit that we are not where we ought to be. Insecurity, economic hardship, youth unemployment, brain-drain (Japa), corruption, and national disunity still challenge us. This is not the Nigeria of our dreams.

But I bring you a message of hope – Nigeria will rise again.

MY MESSAGE AND PRAYER FOR NIGERIA:

1. To the Government: I urge the Federal Government to renew its social contract with Nigerians. Let there be people-centered policies that bring down the cost of living, secure our farms and streets, create jobs for our youths, and restore confidence in the Naira and in our nation.

2. To the Youths: You are the future and the present of Nigeria. Do not lose hope in Nigeria. Instead of Japa, let us build together. Your creativity in tech, entertainment, agriculture and innovation is already putting Nigeria on the global map.

3. To Women and Mothers: You are the true nation-builders. Continue to pray for Nigeria and raise children with patriotism and moral values.

4. To All Nigerians: Let us choose peace over violence, unity over tribalism, dialogue over division. No nation can develop in the midst of hatred and disunity. Let us embrace the UN-POLAC ideals of Positive Livelihood, Peace and Moral Rectitude.

As a former Presidential Candidate, I reaffirm my commitment to a Nigeria where equity, justice, fairness and meritocracy prevail. A Nigeria where every child, whether from Sokoto or Bayelsa, from Abia or Borno, has equal opportunity to succeed.

Let this 66th Independence be a spiritual and national renaissance – a rebirth of our values, our patriotism, and our love for one another.

I congratulate every Nigerian. Let us celebrate with moderation, pray for our fallen heroes, and pray for our leaders.

Long Live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!
Long Live UN-POLAC!*
God Bless Nigeria!

_Issued and Signed by:_
[email protected]

Iquo Halo Eton
Special Assistant / Public Relations
Office of the United Nations POLAC Peace Consul & Secretary General of BOT, UN-POLAC, (PC,SG)
Office of H.E Ambassador Bishop Prof Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies