Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to remain united and uphold the rule of law as the country celebrates its 66th Independence anniversary.
Makinde made the call on Thursday at the Independence Day celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, where he was represented by his Deputy, Barrister Bayo Lawal.
Speaking on the theme, “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing,” the governor urged Nigerians to remember and appreciate the sacrifices of the country’s founding heroes.
He said Nigeria’s independence in 1960 was achieved through the sacrifices and struggles of the nation’s founding fathers, adding that the freedom enjoyed today should inspire citizens to take responsibility for nation-building.
Makinde said the anniversary provided an opportunity for sober reflection on the challenges confronting Nigeria and Oyo State, stressing that democracy and the rule of law remained essential to effective self-governance.
He said, “We must appreciate our heroes past for what they did to achieve and attain independence in 1960. Independence was earned through their sacrifices and countless struggles. The freedom we enjoy today is a result of their labour.
“As we reflect on our nation’s journey since 1960, we must acknowledge the challenges we face in all ramifications. As a state, we also have our own challenges in Oyo State.
“This day calls for sober reflection on the issues confronting us at both the national and state levels. But we must also appreciate that independence teaches us—at both national and state levels—how to govern ourselves. And we cannot govern ourselves without upholding the rule of law and the tenets of democracy.”
The governor also stressed the importance of national unity, noting that Nigeria’s diversity, with more than 250 ethnic groups, should be regarded as a source of strength rather than division.
He called on Nigerians to put aside religious and ethnic differences and continue to work together for the progress of the country.
Highlighting the achievements of his administration since 2019, Makinde said Oyo State had recorded progress in education, security, sports, business and infrastructure.
He attributed the achievements to the cooperation and support of the people of the state.
“Since 2019, when this administration was elected, we have achieved feats and progress in all spheres of life: education, security, sports, business, and infrastructure,” he said.
On security, the governor said his administration had established a robust security framework through the Oyo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, which he said works with other security agencies to maintain peace across the state.
He also listed road networks, education facilities, hospitals and the Light Up Oyo initiative among the infrastructure projects executed across the five zones of the state.
According to him, the administration had spread development across Oke-Ogun I and II, Ogbomoso, Oyo, Ibarapa and Ibadan zones.
Makinde congratulated Nigerians and residents of Oyo State on the anniversary and urged citizens to continue to live together peacefully for the progress of the country.
The celebration featured a march past, cultural displays and presentation of prizes.
Those in attendance included the Deputy Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Fadeyi; Chief Judge of Oyo State, Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerima; Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Adenike Fashina; Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Alhaja Wasilat Adegoke; other commissioners and permanent secretaries; 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 and other government functionaries and dignitaries.
