As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele have called for national unity, renewed faith in the country and peaceful political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In separate Independence Day messages on Thursday, the three leaders urged Nigerians to preserve the nation’s unity, support efforts to strengthen the economy and security, and uphold democratic values.
Akpabio, in a message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, described Nigeria as “our destiny, our duty, our future,” urging citizens to celebrate the resilience of Nigerians and remain committed to building a better country.
He said Nigeria’s 66-year journey had witnessed “triumphs and trials” but noted that Nigerians had continued to strive, create and believe in the country’s future.
The Senate President also paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces and security agencies who had sacrificed their lives in service to the nation, while urging Nigerians to embrace the country’s diversity.
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“Let this anniversary renew our affection for one another and remind us that the green-white-green shelters us all,” Akpabio said.
Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the Nigerian project and support efforts to build a stronger, more prosperous and secure nation.
He said Nigeria had made significant progress since independence despite its challenges, adding that unity, resilience and collective effort would help the country overcome its difficulties.
The Deputy Senate President also said the National Assembly would continue to provide legislative support for economic growth and improved security, including through the proposed State Police Bill currently before state Houses of Assembly.
On his part, Bamidele called on political parties and candidates to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in strict compliance with the Electoral Act, 2026 and the Constitution.
The Senate Leader warned against hate speech and inflammatory statements capable of triggering political unrest and ethno-religious tensions ahead of the 2027 elections.
“No ambition is worth setting the nation ablaze,” Bamidele said, urging political actors to pursue their aspirations with “decorum, patriotism and utmost restraint.”
The lawmakers’ messages came as the country marked 66 years of independence, with renewed calls for Nigerians and political leaders to protect national unity and work towards a peaceful and prosperous future.
