As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko has called on Nigerians to embrace resilience and renewed commitment to building a nation that transforms its vast wealth into wellbeing for its people.
In a message titled “Nigeria @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges”, the Delta North senator described Nigeria as a country that has endured turbulence, survived setbacks, and continues to stand tall as Africa’s most powerful voice.
“Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a work in progress, a story of resilience, promise, and determination,” he said. “Ours is a nation that has survived turbulence, overcome setbacks, and yet continues to stand as Africa’s most powerful voice.”
The lawmaker applauded the strides of the present administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting efforts at restoring macroeconomic stability, reducing reckless imports through local production, expanding social interventions, and reaffirming Nigeria’s leadership on the continent.
Senator Nwoko also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima’s address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, particularly his call for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, sovereign debt relief, equitable access to trade and financing, fair resource ownership, and closing the digital divide so that, as Shettima said, “AI means Africa Included.”
“These are not abstract declarations,” Nwoko emphasized. “They are the lived realities that define our struggle as a nation.”
He further outlined his legislative priorities in line with these convictions, including justice through reparations and reconciliation, dignity through social security and education reforms, sovereignty through tackling crude oil theft and gas flaring, and opportunity through youth entrepreneurship, diaspora voting, and expansion of the digital economy.
At 65, he stressed, Nigeria must redefine itself as a nation of fulfilled potential rather than wasted opportunities.
“We must secure our communities, empower our youth, modernize our infrastructure, and build institutions that outlive individuals. We must insist that no Nigerian is left behind — not the farmer in the village, the entrepreneur in the city, or the vulnerable in need of support,” he said.
The senator noted: “Our journey is far from finished. But if we strengthen collaboration between the executive and legislature, keep faith with one another, and place people at the center of our policies, then this decade can be the turning point when Nigeria moves from survival to greatness.”
