Dr. Ademola Iyanda Ebeloku, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, has urged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, love for one another, and good neighbourliness as part of efforts to build a better and more prosperous nation. This was contained in his Independence Day message to mark Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, celebrated on October 1, 2026. Ebeloku felicitated Nigerians on the anniversary, saying the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the nation's journey, heritage, and the sacrifices made by the country's founding heroes.
Ebeloku described Nigeria's diversity as a source of strength and resilience, noting that the country had weathered several storms and continued to wax stronger despite the numerous challenges confronting it. According to him, "Nigeria has come a long way, weathered many storms, and continues to wax stronger in the face of numerous challenges. Indeed, our diversity remains a source of strength and resilience, come rain or shine." He extended his goodwill to the Governing Council, Academic Board, Management, staff, and students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, commending their commitment to contributing to national development through knowledge generation, dissemination, and application.
The Rector said the institution remained committed to its role in building a united and prosperous Nigeria by equipping students with knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society. He noted that the Independence anniversary should also rekindle memories of the sacrifices of Nigeria's past heroes, whose courage, patriotism, and selfless service helped lay the foundation for the country. Ebeloku urged Nigerians to preserve the legacies of the nation's heroes by demonstrating patriotism and accepting their collective responsibility for strengthening national unity.
Ebeloku called on citizens across different sectors and professions to continue building on the positive legacies inherited from previous generations, stressing the need for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. According to Ebeloku, "In our various capacities and callings, let us continue to build on the good legacies bequeathed to us, without let or hindrance." He further urged Nigerians to embrace "genuine love for one another, renewed hope in our collective destiny, and the spirit of good neighbourliness."
The Rector expressed optimism that with collective commitment and unity of purpose, Nigerians could build a country capable of taking its rightful place among the comity of nations. He stated that together, Nigerians can build the Nigeria of their dreams—a nation that they can all be proud of, and a better and more prosperous Nigeria that will take its rightful place among the comity of nations. Ebeloku congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for the continued progress and prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Ebeloku's message is a call to action for Nigerians to work together towards a common goal of building a better nation. He emphasized the importance of unity, love, and good neighbourliness in achieving this goal. The Rector's message is also a reminder of the sacrifices made by Nigeria's founding heroes and the need for Nigerians to preserve their legacies.
The Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, under Ebeloku's leadership, is committed to contributing to national development through education and skills acquisition. The institution is playing its part in building a united and prosperous Nigeria by equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to contribute meaningfully to society.
Key points
- Dr. Ademola Iyanda Ebeloku calls on Nigerians to unite and work towards building a better and more prosperous nation.
- Ebeloku emphasizes the importance of peaceful coexistence, love, and good neighbourliness in achieving national unity and prosperity.
- The Rector congratulates Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and prays for the continued progress and prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.