President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sent a message of unity and togetherness to Nigerians as the country prepares to mark its 65th Independence anniversary.
The President’s message was delivered by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a special Juma’a prayer at the National Mosque in Abuja on Friday, marking the commencement of events for Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.
Idris, speaking on behalf of Tinubu, said the country’s future could only be secured through a shared sense of responsibility.
“Mr President has enjoined me to ask all Nigerians, regardless of their affiliations, to come together in unity so that our collective march towards sustainable prosperity can be achieved,” he told worshippers.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s political, economic, and security challenges over the years, Idris noted that the nation is now firmly on the path to sustainable development.
“Indeed, 65 years is a long one in the history of any developing nation. Our country has passed through numerous challenges, but alhamdulilah, today Nigeria is on the path of sustainable development,” he said.
He added that this year’s anniversary theme, “All Hands on Deck for the Progress and Development of Our Nation”, reflects the administration’s conviction that prosperity requires unity and dedication.
In his sermon, one of the National Mosque Imams, Professor Luqman Zakariya, prayed for divine guidance for Nigeria’s leaders and urged citizens to reject corruption, tribalism, and injustice.
“The source of peace, we seek Your peace upon Nigeria, dispel the cloud of insecurity, and establish lasting peace and tranquillity throughout our land,” he prayed.
The prayer session drew dignitaries across political and diplomatic circles, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, members of the Federal Executive Council, senators, House of Representatives members, state officials, and foreign diplomats.
Ambassadors from Algeria, Indonesia, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina were also in attendance.
The independence celebrations will continue with an inter-denominational church service on Sunday, a press conference on Monday, followed by the presidential broadcast and anniversary parade on 1 October.
