A Call for Unity on Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary

Former presidential candidate and United Nations Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) Peace Consul, Ambassador Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies, has called for a national renaissance anchored on unity, patriotism, peace and hope as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary.
Adesanya-Davies, in an Independence Day message issued on behalf of UN-POLAC, her family and political family, urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and work collectively towards building a more prosperous and united country.
She congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government and Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, while commending the resilience of the Nigerian people since independence in 1960.
According to her, Nigeria has made significant progress despite passing through civil war, military rule, democratic struggles and economic challenges, but she noted that the country still faces insecurity, economic hardship, youth unemployment, brain drain, corruption and disunity.
“Yet, I bring you a message of hope – Nigeria will rise again,” she said.
Adesanya-Davies urged the Federal Government to renew its social contract with Nigerians by implementing people-centred policies capable of reducing the cost of living, securing farms and communities, creating employment opportunities for youths and restoring confidence in the naira and the country.
She also appealed to Nigerian youths not to lose hope in the country, urging them to deploy their creativity and talents in technology, entertainment, agriculture and innovation towards national development.
The former presidential candidate described women and mothers as “true nation-builders,” urging them to continue praying for Nigeria and raising children with patriotism and sound moral values.
She called on all Nigerians to choose peace over violence, unity over tribalism and dialogue over division, stressing that no nation could achieve meaningful development amid hatred and disunity.
Adesanya-Davies reaffirmed her commitment to a Nigeria where equity, justice, fairness and meritocracy prevail, with equal opportunities for citizens irrespective of their state or region of origin.
She urged Nigerians to use the 66th Independence anniversary as an opportunity for a “spiritual and national renaissance” and to renew their commitment to patriotism, national unity and love for one another.
She also called on citizens to celebrate the anniversary with moderation, while remembering the nation’s fallen heroes and praying for Nigeria’s leaders.