GOVERNORS CALL FOR UNITY AS NIGERIA MARKS 66TH INDEPENDENCE

Governors and other prominent Nigerians have called for peace, unity and responsible citizenship as Nigeria marked its 66th Independence Anniversary.

In separate messages on October 1, the leaders acknowledged challenges facing the country, including insecurity, unemployment, poverty and economic hardship, while urging citizens to contribute to national development.

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, called for renewed hope and national unity while highlighting his administration’s reported investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and social welfare.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, urged residents to maintain peace and avoid allowing political differences to undermine the state’s development.

In Plateau State, Governor Caleb Mutfwang granted executive pardon to 130 inmates and commuted the sentences of four others to life imprisonment as part of activities marking the anniversary.

Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde called for unity across religious and ethnic lines, while Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo said his administration would continue working with security agencies and community leaders to protect residents.

Kano Governor Abba Yusuf also urged citizens to reject violence and maintain peace ahead of the 2027 elections.

Other governors, including Sokoto’s Ahmed Aliyu, Kwara’s AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Abia’s Alex Otti, Nasarawa’s Abdullahi Sule, Gombe’s Inuwa Yahaya and Ondo’s Lucky Aiyedatiwa, also highlighted development challenges and called for greater cooperation.

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki urged young Nigerians to demand accountability and better opportunities, while EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede called for stronger rejection of corruption.