On September 27, 2026, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Catholic Archbishop of Owerri Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Dr Lucius Ugorji, urged Nigerians to prioritize unity, integrity, and individual responsibility. They spoke at a special thanksgiving and eucharistic service held at Maria Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri to commemorate Nigeria's 66th independence anniversary. The event was a call to reflect on Nigeria's journey since gaining independence in 1960.
Governor Uzodimma reflected on Nigeria's history, noting that the country had faced numerous challenges, including civil war, military rule, economic difficulties, and political crises. He acknowledged the sacrifices of ordinary Nigerians in keeping the nation together. Uzodimma emphasized that "Nigeria at 66 is our country. It belongs to all of us," and encouraged citizens to contribute to nation-building through responsible conduct.
The governor acknowledged the economic difficulties facing families and businesses, stating that the government had a responsibility to ensure that citizens' sacrifices translated into meaningful improvements in their lives. He stressed that "leadership begins at home" and urged Nigerians to obey laws, shun dishonesty, and handle entrusted resources with integrity. Uzodimma also highlighted the need for individuals to take responsibility for their actions.
Archbishop Ugorji, in his homily, identified corruption, insecurity, poverty, unemployment, inadequate power supply, and weak institutions as major challenges to national development. He commended Governor Uzodimma for his administration's efforts in infrastructural development, particularly with the Orashi electricity power supply in the state. The archbishop emphasized the importance of righteousness and accountability in nation-building.
Archbishop Ugorji quoted from Proverbs 14:34, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." He urged Nigerians to adopt honesty, accountability, fairness, and merit. The archbishop called for national unity, credible elections, and an end to ethnic and religious divisions. He emphasized that if Nigerians want a new Nigeria, they must become new Nigerians.
The event was a call to action for Nigerians to take responsibility for their country's development. Both Uzodimma and Archbishop Ugorji emphasized the need for collective action to address the country's challenges. They encouraged Nigerians to look beyond government and take ownership of their country's future.
The 66th independence anniversary celebration served as a reminder of Nigeria's journey and its potential for growth and development. The call for unity and renewal by Governor Uzodimma and Archbishop Ugorji resonated with Nigerians, who are seeking a better future for their country.
Key points
- Governor Hope Uzodimma and Archbishop Lucius Ugorji called for Nigerian unity and renewal on the 66th independence anniversary.
- The duo emphasized the need for individual responsibility, integrity, and accountability in nation-building.
- They identified corruption, insecurity, and weak institutions as major challenges to national development.
