The All Progressives Congress candidate for Sokoto East Senatorial District, Umar Ajiya, has called on Nigerians to harness the country's diversity as a source of strength for national development. In his Independence Day message, Ajiya emphasized the importance of unity in overcoming the nation's challenges. He made the statement on October 2, 2026, as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary. Ajiya urged citizens to work together with leaders at all levels to build a peaceful, stable, and prosperous nation.
Ajiya noted that Nigeria's current challenges are not insurmountable and require collective determination, sacrifice, and a sustained commitment to national unity. He encouraged Nigerians to view the country's ethnic, religious, and cultural diversity as an asset rather than a source of division. According to Ajiya, the country's diversity should be a source of strength, not division, and citizens must learn to work together, respect their differences, and use their different strengths to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
The senatorial candidate also called on Nigerians to support genuine efforts by governments at all levels to address insecurity, strengthen the economy, create jobs, and improve the standard of living of citizens. He emphasized that nation-building requires contributions from everyone and that citizens have a responsibility to complement the efforts of the government through patriotism, sacrifice, and commitment to the common good.
Ajiya further urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary to reflect on the sacrifices of the country's founding fathers and the ideals that shaped the struggle for independence. He stated that Independence Day is not only a celebration of freedom but also a time to reflect on the nation's progress and the future it wants to leave for future generations.
The APC candidate appealed to Nigerians to put the national interest above ethnic, religious, and sectional considerations, saying the country's progress would depend largely on the ability of its citizens to work together despite their differences. He added that reposing confidence in leadership is one of the ways of ensuring progress in the economy and strengthening the task of uniting the country.
Ajiya called on Nigerians, irrespective of their ethnic, religious, or political backgrounds, to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, resilient, and self-reliant nation. He congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the 66th Independence Anniversary and expressed optimism that with unity, responsible leadership, and active citizenship, the country could overcome its challenges and achieve its full potential.
According to Ajiya, a peaceful and united Nigeria would create the right environment for economic growth, investment, job creation, and sustainable development. He emphasized that leadership and followership must work together for nation-building to succeed.
Key points
- Umar Ajiya urges Nigerians to harness diversity as a source of strength for national development.
- Ajiya emphasizes the importance of unity in overcoming Nigeria's challenges.
- The APC candidate calls for collective efforts to build a peaceful, stable, and prosperous nation.
