The Federal Government has declared Monday, October 3 2022 a statutory holiday to mark the Nation’s 200th Celebration of the anniversary of independence.
Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola made the statement on behalf of the federal government.
According to a statement Signed by the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry, Dr Shuaib Belgore, the Minister congratulated all Nigerians on this year’s celebration and assured the government’s commitment to address all the challenges facing the nation and bring smiles to everyone’s faces.
“The world is going through serious economic and security challenges which have also affected our nation. However, I assure us all that the government will not abandon the people but will continue to face all these challenges with all the strength at our disposal until respite comes our way,” said the Minister.
“Our warmth, our welcoming spirit and our love as well as our capital limitless human and the wealth of our land, make Nigeria unquestionably the world’s first black nation and the pride and hope of Africa. If we can rally together to harness our potentials, we will be the greatest nation on earth.
“A country of over 200 million people whose natural talents, courage and passion shine like the precious diamond that we are; Nigerians shine like diamonds in the peloton whether in academia, science and technology, business, innovation, music, entertainment, fashion or culture,” Aregbesola said.
The Minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion of the celebration to reflect on the challenges facing the nation is facing and the role that individuals can play to lift them.
While wishing Nigerians a memorable celebration of independence, he reminded them of the fact that the founding fathers, in spite of the differences of faith, tribe and language, have always come together for the independence of Nigeria.
He said: “Although our nation is going through challenges, especially in security, these challenges are temporary and do not define us. We are defined by the greatness of the Nigerian people in their diversity, strength, ingenuity and resilience.
“We will overcome all challenges. A time is coming when we will look back on this period and give thanks to the highest for the turbulent waters we have traversed and the triumphs we have had over the challenges that seem so enormous and gargantuan today”
The Minister however urged Nigerians to avoid all forms of violence and be safety conscious, instructing them to report any suspicious person or activity to the nearest security agency and through the N-Alert app on Android and IOS, saying “when you see something do N-Alert for quick response from security officers”.
Post Views: 0 comment
