As Nigerians mark the nation's 66th Independence anniversary, Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has called on citizens to remain courageous and optimistic about the country's future. He made this appeal during a thanksgiving Mass held at the Enugu Government House Chapel. Mbah noted that although this year's celebration was largely low-key, it should not diminish the significance of the occasion. He emphasized that nation-building is not always accompanied by fanfare.
Mbah observed that some of the most consequential work in the country is being done quietly in various sectors, including classrooms, hospitals, farms, and construction sites. He stated that Nigerians contribute to the country's progress daily, often without fanfare. The governor recalled that Nigeria had survived crises that had torn other nations apart and noted that the reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu were beginning to create new opportunities and conditions for economic growth.
The governor described Enugu State as living proof of the promise of independence, resilience, and self-belief. He said the state had moved from a narrative of decline to one of renewal, with a renaissance taking place across various sectors, including schools, hospitals, roads, and agriculture. Mbah attributed this transformation to the support of the people of Enugu State and reassured them of his administration's determination to remain focused on its development agenda.
During the thanksgiving Mass, Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, expressed regret that Nigeria had yet to fully realize the promise of independence, particularly in the face of persistent security and economic challenges. However, he commended Mbah for significant progress in the state, particularly in the area of security. Onaga emphasized that sustainable investment and development could not take place in an atmosphere of insecurity.
Onaga urged leaders to deploy their mandates for the public good, stressing that political and public authority should be exercised as an opportunity to serve and care for the vulnerable. He called for a stronger moral foundation for the country, saying Nigeria's progress should be anchored not only on material development but also on justice, holiness, and truth.
The Mass was attended by heads of other arms of government, senior government officials, and other leaders. Mbah thanked the people of Enugu State for their support and reassured them of his administration's commitment to their welfare and security. He also emphasized the importance of investing in education and strengthening the economy to improve the quality of life for the people.
The governor concluded by stating that his administration would remain committed to building a state where children do not have to leave home to find a future. With the current reforms and progress in Enugu State, Nigerians have reasons to be optimistic about the country's future. The 66th Independence anniversary celebration serves as a reminder of the nation's journey and its potential for growth and development.
Key points
- Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged Nigerians to remain courageous and optimistic about the country's future.
- The governor emphasized that nation-building is not always accompanied by fanfare.
- Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Rev. Callistus Onaga, commended Mbah for significant progress in the state, particularly in the area of security.
