The Executive Director, Social Services, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, Chief Favour Izoukumor, has felicitated Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Izoukumor, in his Independence Day message, described October 1, 1960, as one of the defining milestones in Nigeria’s history, saying the day marked the country’s emergence as an independent nation after decades of sacrifice and struggle by nationalist leaders and patriots.
He paid tribute to the men and women whose courage, resilience and determination contributed to Nigeria’s independence and the development of the country.
According to him, Nigeria has evolved from a nation of about 45 million people at independence to a country of more than 230 million citizens, remaining the most populous Black nation in the world and one of Africa’s leading nations.
Izoukumor said Nigeria’s ethnic, linguistic, cultural and traditional diversity remained a reflection of the country’s richness and a reminder of the collective responsibility of citizens to build a stronger and more prosperous nation.
He particularly celebrated Delta State, describing it as a state created from the defunct Bendel State and endowed with vast oil and gas resources which have continued to contribute significantly to the economic development and sustenance of the federation.
He also commended the people of Delta for their resilience, industry, hospitality and enlightenment, noting that their contributions remained important to the Nigerian project.
The DESOPADEC executive director acknowledged that Nigeria’s 66-year journey had been characterised by economic challenges, insecurity, political upheavals and the complex demands of nation-building.
He noted that despite the challenges, the resilience and enduring spirit of Nigerians had remained unbroken.
Izoukumor recalled that the country had survived the devastating civil war, endured years of military rule and, since 1999, maintained an uninterrupted democratic dispensation.
He said the experiences underscored the need for Nigerians to strengthen the bonds that unite them rather than allow differences to become sources of division.
The DESOPADEC boss called for renewed faith in Nigeria and a deeper commitment to unity, peace, good governance, justice and shared prosperity.
He said the country should be one where every citizen, regardless of ethnicity, religion or circumstance, could access opportunities, enjoy dignity and have a sense of belonging.
Izoukumor prayed that the Green-White-Green flag would continue to symbolise Nigeria’s unity, resilience, peace and hope for a prosperous future.
He also urged Nigerians to ensure that the sacrifices of the nation’s heroes past would not be in vain.
He wished Nigerians a happy 66th Independence Anniversary and prayed for the continued progress of Delta State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
