Soludo calls for collective responsibility as Nigeria marks 66th Independence anniversary

Politics

AWKA, Nigeria (NPA) — Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, his wife, Nonye, Deputy Governor Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, members of the State Executive Council and other residents, on Sunday, gathered at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith, Awka, for an interdenominational thanksgiving service to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary.

Reflecting on 66 years of nationhood, Soludo said nation-building remained a collective responsibility requiring resilience, sacrifice and active participation from citizens.

He said true freedom went beyond the raising of national flags, citing the sermon by Archbishop Alexander Ibezim, titled “From Bondage to Freedom, God’s Purpose for Nigeria,” which emphasised the importance of Nigerians determining their own destiny.

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“Governments will come and go, Nigeria remains,” Soludo said, urging Nigerians to remain committed to the country despite its challenges.

The governor acknowledged the decline of the agricultural boom associated with earlier decades but said Nigeria had not failed, urging citizens to contribute positively to the country and “brighten the corner where we are”.

He stressed the connection between individual conduct and national development, saying, “For personal integrity is national integrity.”

Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace, progress and good governance in Anambra State.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future and prayed for continued progress in both the country and Anambra.

“May Nigeria continue to rise, and may Anambra continue to win,” he said.

The governor prayed for God’s blessings on Anambra State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.