President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has assured Nigerians that the country will overcome its present challenges and emerge as a peaceful and prosperous nation. He gave the assurance at an inter-denominational church service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. Akpabio urged Nigerians to reject tribalism, bitterness, religious conflict and division, saying the country needed unity and collective commitment to overcome its difficulties.
Akpabio, in a speech titled “Keeping Faith with Nigeria”, said the present generation had a responsibility to leave behind a better country for future generations. He urged Nigerians to demonstrate courage in confronting the challenges facing the nation and to show greater concern for the suffering of their fellow citizens. Akpabio drew inspiration from the biblical account of Prophet Zechariah, asking Nigerians to consider what they see in the midst of insecurity and other difficulties across the country.
The Senate President called on Nigerians to join efforts to achieve a peaceful and prosperous nation, expressing confidence that the country could overcome its current difficulties and leave behind a peaceful and prosperous nation for generations yet unborn. He also called for a national awakening from indifference to the suffering of others and from the practice of excusing wrongdoing whenever it serves personal interests.
Akpabio highlighted Nigeria’s democratic gains, noting that the country’s independence was secured through years of patriotic agitation and constitutional negotiations. He recalled the restoration of constitutional government in 1999, noting that Nigeria had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule. According to him, the continuity of democratic governance is an achievement that should be appreciated.
The Senate President also acknowledged that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had embarked on reforms that required difficult decisions. He recognised the burden the measures had placed on many families but urged Nigerians to continue supporting the reforms as the government seeks to address the country’s economic challenges.
Akpabio cited Nigeria’s reported 4.43 per cent economic growth in the second quarter of 2026, the student loan scheme and ongoing road projects as indications of developments under the Tinubu administration. He also pointed to fresh investment decisions in the gas sector as a sign of confidence in Nigeria’s economic potential.
Also speaking at the service, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, thanked God for guiding Nigeria through its journey of sacrifices, challenges and triumphs. The service provided an opportunity for prayers and reflection on Nigeria’s 66 years as an independent nation, with calls for peace, unity, stability and prosperity across the country.
Key points
- Akpabio urges Nigerians to reject tribalism, bitterness, religious conflict and division.
- The Senate President highlights Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.
- Akpabio cites Nigeria’s reported 4.43 per cent economic growth in the second quarter of 2026.
