The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Motunrayo Omidiran, has urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the country and work collectively towards building a more united, inclusive and prosperous nation.
Omidiran made the call in her message to Nigerians on Thursday to mark the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The FCC boss noted that the October 1 celebration provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew their commitment to national development.
Nigeria’s diversity, Omidiran stressed, should be harnessed as a strength rather than allowed to become a source of division.
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“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC chair also emphasised the importance of the Federal Character Principle to national cohesion, noting that equitable representation would promote a greater sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
Government institutions at all levels, Omidiran urged, should uphold fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while citizens should support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Acknowledging the challenges confronting the country, the FCC boss urged Nigerians not to lose hope, given the opportunities and abundant human and natural resources available to the nation.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” Omidiran stated.
The FCC chair further urged young Nigerians to focus on knowledge and skills acquisition, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing them as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
Building the Nigeria citizens aspire to, according to Omidiran, requires the collective efforts of government and Nigerians across the federation.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
The FCC chair reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to effectively discharging its constitutional mandate and supporting efforts to promote equitable representation and inclusive national development.
Omidiran also called on Nigerians to place unity above division and national service above self-interest.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” she said.
The FCC chair congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary and prayed for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the country.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Omidiran said.
