Independence Day: Oyo NOA commends citizens’ resilience, urges commitment to building Nigeria of their dream
BY STEPHEN GBADAMOSI
As Nigeria commemorates its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Oyo State Directorate of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has commended Nigerians, particularly residents of Oyo State, for their resilience in enduring the transient pains associated with the nation’s ongoing reforms, expressing optimism that the outcome will ultimately be salutary.
The Oyo State Director of NOA, Mrs. Ajolayo Sinmiat Akande, stated this in her Independence Day message, which she personally signed, to felicitate the people of Oyo State and Nigerians, as the country commemorates its independence.
Mrs. Akande noted that Nigeria’s independence represented the nation’s sovereignty and its inalienable right to determine its own political destiny, describing it as a historic transition from thraldom to freedom.
She acknowledged that despite the difficulties currently confronting the nation, Nigerians, as a resilient and determined people, have continued to keep hope alive and demonstrate their willingness to join hands with government at all levels in building stronger institutions and developing critical infrastructures.
According to her, the various measures being undertaken to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic realities, including efforts aimed at reducing transportation and energy-related burdens through the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)-powered buses, were indications that the nation was working towards easing the hardship confronting citizens.
She also noted ongoing efforts by the government to address insecurity and other challenges bedeviling the country, stressing that “behind the clouds is a silver lining.”
The NOA State Director, therefore, urged Nigerians, particularly residents of Oyo State, to continue to cooperate with government at all levels and contribute actively to the renewal of the national promise, stressing that nation-building was a collective responsibility.
Mrs. Akande also commended the Oyo State government for complementing Federal Government’s efforts towards strengthening security in the state, particularly through the procurement of surveillance helicopters to enhance security operations and intelligence gathering.
She called on citizens to celebrate the Independence Anniversary with moderation, while remaining united in confronting the challenges facing the country.
“While celebrating our independence modestly, we should work in harmony to confront our difficulties and commit ourselves to building the Nigeria of our collective dream,” she said.
Mrs. Akande wished the people of Oyo State and the entire Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary, urging them to remain hopeful, patriotic, and committed to the task of building a peaceful, prosperous and united Nigeria.
