Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State expressed regrets that after six decades of securing the independence and freedom of our people, the Nigerian state is still battling with issues that threaten our unity and corporate existence as a people instead of celebrating progress and technological advancement of our nation like other sister nations within the African continent.
He described as unfortunate the current suffocating and towering experience of contending with insurgents, Kidnappings, corruption and Armed Banditry apparently destroying the pillars and foundations of our unity and national existence.
Delivering his speech to mark the 62nd Independence Anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s independence at Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola, venue of the celebration, the Governor said that though the country is passing through worst challenges of insecurity, harsh economic realities and Covid-19 pandemic in our national life, our ability to contend with such forces of evil will usher us into a new promising and prosperous nation.
He said that as the nation celebrates 62 years of our Nation’s journey to Nationhood, it calls for sobber reflections and reminder of the immense and relentless sacrifices made by selfless compatriots in the struggle for Independence.
“Today, we celebrate 62 years of Nationhood. We celebrate the return of our liberties, the restoration of our dignity, and the democratic resilience we have built over the last 6 decades. I congratulate all Nigerians for keeping faith with the Nation.
“I am happy that since Nigeria returned to democracy in 1999, her people have been able to build one of the most robust democracies in Africa. The fields of individual freedoms have expanded and citizens participation has become emboldened, but I am however worried that the Nation has had to pass through challenging times in her journey to Nationhood. Reeling out of an unfortunate battle with Insurgents, kidnappings and Armed Banditry should give every citizen cause for concern”, he said.
Making a critical appraisal of the development challenges of his State, Fintiri said, “today, we are proud to tell our people that we’ve been able to change the ugly narrative and are ever ready to defend our actions publicly knowing fully well that we’ve made a difference in governance within our first tenure despite these challenges”.
He called on Nigerians not allow the mistakes of the past to act as a stumbling-block to the hope and achievements of the future.
“Although we have become free of imperialist, we have not freed ourselves from underdevelopment and its challenges, there are many battles ahead to be fought and won. The battles for Security, Economic prosperity and the security of our people’s future lies ahead and remains to be won.
“I believe in a new Nigeria going into elections in 2023, a Nigeria that would surmount its present challenges and emerge stronger. But it will not just happen until we rise up to make the real change that Nigeria has been yearning for through the ballot,” he said.
He further assured the people of his State that he will not abandon any of the ongoing projects and his insatiable appetite for infrastructural development of the state until the last day of this administration.
“We have come this far in Adamawa because you decided to give a qualified driver the wheels to take you to the promised Land. While congratulating you for how far the State has come following the challenges, we had to pass through, we still have challenges, but the Nigerian spirit of resilience will carry us through.
“As we enjoy the fruits of the Labour of the founding Fathers of Nigeria, let us not forget those who layed the foundations of liberty and social freedom in Nigeria.”
He therefore paid tribute to the members of our Security Agencies and our fallen Heroes who have successfully guided the destiny of our Nation through trying conditions and tested loyalty.
“My dear Adamawa Residents, the task ahead is enormous and it is a task for all of us. I would need your contribution, co-operation and support. Adamawa can and must become a great and modern State” he concluded.
PIONEER NEWS 