Nigeria at 65: Leaders and experts say sovereignty alone is not enough — progress demands visionary leadership and active citizen participation.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter, has urged citizens and leaders to embrace unity, prayer and inclusive governance as Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1
In a statement issued in Jalingo, the state CAN Chairman, Rev. Fr. Williams Awoshiri, congratulated President Bola Tinubu and all Nigerians on the milestone, describing it as both a moment of celebration and sober reflection.
“Sixty-five years after independence, our nation has faced trials, but we have also demonstrated resilience and faith,” Awoshiri said. “On behalf of the Christian community in Taraba, we call on all Nigerians to continue to pray and work for the peace and prosperity of our land. We equally urge those in positions of leadership from the Presidency to the grassroots to see their service as a sacred trust.”
The cleric emphasized that true governance must uplift every citizen, regardless of religion, tribe, or political affiliation. Quoting Psalm 33:12, he noted: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He chose for His inheritance. It is only by anchoring our nation on godly values that Nigeria can truly rise to fulfill her destiny as a beacon of hope for Africa and the world.”
Awoshiri also prayed for divine guidance for Nigeria’s leaders: “We ask Almighty God to grant our leaders wisdom, courage, and the fear of God to make decisions that will move Nigeria forward. May the labours of our heroes past never be in vain.”
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