Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to uphold national unity, irrespective of ethnic and religious differences, while reflecting on the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Makinde made the appeal on Thursday during the Independence Day celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, where he was represented by his deputy, Barrister Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal.
Speaking on the theme, “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing,” the governor described Nigeria’s independence in 1960 as a product of the determination, sacrifices and struggles of the nation’s founding heroes.
He urged citizens to honour their legacy by embracing their responsibilities and contributing to national development, stressing that the country’s diversity should serve as a unifying force rather than a source of division.
According to him, Nigeria’s over 250 ethnic groups must work together to overcome prevailing challenges and sustain democratic governance anchored on the rule of law.
Makinde noted that the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the country’s progress since independence while acknowledging the challenges confronting both the nation and Oyo State.
He said the principles of democracy and respect for the rule of law remained essential to the effective management of the country’s affairs.
Highlighting the achievements of his administration since assuming office in 2019, the governor listed education, security, sports, economic activities and infrastructure development as areas where the state had recorded progress.
On security, he pointed to the establishment of the Oyo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, noting that the outfit works alongside other security agencies to maintain peace and protect residents.
He also highlighted infrastructure projects spread across the state’s five zones, including Oke-Ogun I and II, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa and Ibadan.
The governor identified road construction, educational facilities, healthcare infrastructure and the Light Up Oyo State initiative as some of the projects undertaken by his administration to improve living conditions across the state.
He commended residents for their continued cooperation and support, noting that their contributions had played a significant role in the government’s development efforts.
Makinde congratulated Nigerians and the people of Oyo State on the anniversary, urging them to sustain peaceful coexistence and remain committed to the country’s progress.
The celebration featured a march past, cultural performances and the presentation of prizes.
Dignitaries at the event included the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Iyabo Yerima; the Head of Service, Dr. Adenike Fashina; and the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke.
Others were members of the State Executive Council, Permanent Secretaries, the President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes, Barr. Ajeniyi Ajewole; Chairman of All Chairmen, Hon. Sikiru Sanda; service commanders, religious leaders, traditional rulers, government officials and other dignitaries.
