Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on Nigerians to see the country as a shared inheritance and treat its future as a collective responsibility. This was stated on Sunday at the Special Interdenominational Church Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, emphasized the need for citizens to work together to build a united, peaceful, prosperous, and just country for future generations.
Governor Abiodun charged Nigerians to look beyond current challenges and focus on future possibilities. He stressed that government alone cannot build a prosperous society, and there is a need for citizens to work hand-in-hand with the government to build a robust nation. The governor commended President Bola Tinubu for economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that the policies would translate into improved infrastructure, livelihoods, and economic opportunities.
Abiodun’s administration remains committed to expanding economic programmes, strengthening public institutions, and investing in human capital until the end of his tenure. He noted that the true measure of governance is not simply the projects commissioned, but the lives improved and opportunities created. The governor also appealed to political leaders and religious bodies to preach peace, mutual respect, and responsible civic engagement ahead of future elections.
In his sermon titled “A Call to Repentance,” based on Joel 2:12-14, the Archbishop of Lagos and Bishop of Remo, Most Rev. Michael Fape, called on leaders and citizens to turn away from corruption and seek God’s guidance. Fape identified greed as a major driver of corruption, warning against disguising corrupt practices as public relations. He noted that Nigeria had yet to reach its potential, citing infrastructural decay, struggling health and tertiary institutions, and business closures.
Fape commended Abiodun for his administration’s development efforts in Ogun State and urged residents to shun the politics of hatred. The cleric also thanked God for what he described as a reduction in incidents of banditry and kidnapping. He emphasized the need for Nigerians to work together to overcome the country’s challenges.
Governor Abiodun’s call for collective responsibility comes as Nigeria faces various challenges, including economic and security concerns. The governor’s emphasis on working together to build a better future for the country resonated with the congregation at the church service. The event was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials and religious leaders.
Key stakeholders have welcomed Abiodun’s message, calling for Nigerians to work together to overcome the country’s challenges. The governor’s commitment to expanding economic programmes and strengthening public institutions has been seen as a step in the right direction. Three key points from the governor’s address include:
Key points
- The need for Nigerians to view the country as a shared inheritance and treat its future as a collective responsibility.
- The importance of working together to build a united, peaceful, prosperous, and just country for future generations.
- The need for citizens to work hand-in-hand with the government to build a robust nation.
