By Faith Awa Maji, Katsina
The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda has described Nigeria as a ‘beautiful land’ destined for greatness in all facets of its national life, amid the socio-economic problems confronting it.
He made this known in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed Kaula to commemorate the country’s 63rd independence anniversary saying “it is not yet Uhuru for us obviously. But our dear country is absolutely on the cusp of achieving unmatched greatness”.
According to Governor Radda, there is the need for Nigerians from all walks of life to roll out the drums for merriment as the nation clocks 63 years-old. “We need to bask in the euphoria of this historic moment in the life of our fatherland. It is necessary”.
He noted that within only six decades, the country is gradually fulfilling the vision of its founding fathers, as evidenced in the giant strides Nigeria has recorded economically, politically, infrastructurally and developmentally.
“The adventure of our dear nation since 1960 may not be one that is entirely smooth sailing, eventful and pleasurable. Nonetheless, we have come a long way, and there is every cause for us, as a people, to celebrate our nation’s developmental evolution.
“Indeed, both our founding fathers and eminent nationalists who championed Nigeria’s independence, together with successive federal governments displayed sincere commitment towards building a prosperous and egalitarian nation for citizens.
“The Nigeria we have now is yet to reach the Canaan Land, and everyone knows that. But it is inching closer and closer to El dorado. Our great nation is now a model for democratic governance in Africa. Its economy, also, is one of the best and most robust in the continent.
“Our citizens and youths, in recent years, have been breaking glass ceilings in the field of arts, music, tech and scientific innovation, sports, and leadership, among others, globally. For good reasons, we are gradually carving a niche for ourselves in the comity of world nations,” he said.
Dikko Radda, further emphasized that the occasion of Nigeria’s independence anniversary this year, should offer both the ruling class and followers the golden opportunity to renew their individual commitments to national service.
“At such a time like this, we owe our nation the obligation to remain loyal and patriotic to every cause that will advance its development. We should also use this anniversary to again renew our pledge to live harmoniously, peacefully and mutually with one another, regardless of our religious, political and ethnic differences.
“It is expected that our politicians, and other public servants will resolve to prioritize national interest, at all times, above theirs. The onus lies more with them to speedily fix the country, while the masses should do well to support and pray for the country’s leaders, especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his cabinet”.
Nigeria got its independence on 1st October 1960, from her British colonial masters, and ever since, has remained a sovereign entity.
