What Jonathan told Nigerians on nation’s 64th Independence celebration
Former President Goodluck Jonathan
Published By: Kazeem Ugbodaga
By Kazeem Ugbodaga
Former President, Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has called on Nigerians to remain optimistic and resilient, urging citizens not to lose hope in the dream of building a great and prosperous nation.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, Jonathan made the plea on the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary.
Jonathan acknowledged Nigeria’s significant progress since gaining independence in 1960, highlighting the country’s sustained democracy for 25 years, economic growth, and unity.
“Today, we mark a significant milestone in our nation’s history… We have come a long way, making measured strides in various sectors and overcoming countless obstacles,” he said.
However, Jonathan also recognized the significant challenges facing the nation, including insecurity, economic growth, national cohesion, and infrastructure development.
“However, we still face significant challenges that test our resolve and resilience as a people. These border on our inability to meet our goals and expectations on security, economic growth, national cohesion and general infrastructure development,” he admitted.
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To overcome these challenges, Jonathan emphasized the importance of strengthening institutions and promoting a democratic culture that supports peaceful, transparent, free, and fair elections.
“For us to deepen the roots of our democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, we must strengthen our institutions and develop a good democratic culture that will support peaceful, transparent, free and fair elections. This is the basis for good governance, sustainable democracy, national unity and peaceful coexistence,” he stressed.
Jonathan encouraged Nigerians to remain committed to the nation’s greatness, despite the odds, and to work together to build a prosperous nation where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive.
“As a nation, we must recommit to the principles of justice, equity and inclusion. We must harness our diversity, tap into our youth’s potential, and leverage our natural resources for the benefit of all. As we mark this important day, I encourage Nigerians to remain optimistic, resilient, and committed to our nation’s greatness, despite the odds. With a common purpose, zeal and love for one another, we can overcome our challenges and build a prosperous nation of our collective dreams, where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive,” he said.
