Nigeria at 59: Atiku, Jonathan, Sanwo-Olu, Others Preach Hope and Unity

As Nigeria marked its 59th Independence anniversary, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other prominent Nigerians urged citizens to remain hopeful, united and committed to building a better country.

Jonathan, in a message shared on his verified social media account, reflected on Nigeria’s journey since gaining independence from Britain on October 1, 1960.

He recalled the lowering of the Union Jack and the hoisting of Nigeria’s green-white-green flag, describing the moment as the beginning of the country’s political freedom and sovereignty.

According to the former president, Nigerians welcomed independence with hope and expectations of liberty, justice and national progress.

Jonathan acknowledged that the country had experienced both progress and setbacks over the decades, including periods of abundance and hardship, peace and conflict, hope and despair.

Despite those challenges, he said Nigerians had continued to demonstrate resilience and faith in the strength of the country’s unity.

“As we celebrate our 59th Independence Anniversary, let’s honour the memory of those who committed their lives towards advancing the course of our freedom and wellbeing, which this day signifies,” Jonathan said.

He also urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from citizens whose patriotism and contributions had helped advance the country.

Jonathan maintained that Nigerians should not lose hope because of the difficulties confronting the nation, calling on citizens to strengthen their faith in Nigeria and work collectively towards prosperity.

Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2019 election, also used the occasion to call for national unity and renewed commitment to the ideals upon which Nigeria was founded.

Atiku said putting Nigeria first would help revive what he described as the Nigerian dream as well as the ideals of unity and faith, peace and progress envisioned by the country’s founding fathers.

He stressed that Nigeria belonged to all citizens and that everyone had a responsibility to contribute towards making the country successful.

According to him, Nigeria should aspire to become a beacon of hope, democracy and freedom not only in Africa but across the global black community.

Atiku also called on Nigerians to uphold and defend the Constitution and work together in protecting the country’s democratic institutions.

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu similarly called on Nigerians to reflect on the country’s achievements while remaining hopeful about its future.

Sanwo-Olu said Nigerians should focus on what they were grateful for and on their aspirations for the country.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria was making progress and identified growth, peace, health and national development as reasons for citizens to remain hopeful.

The messages from the political leaders centred on unity, patriotism and optimism as Nigeria celebrated 59 years of independence.