— Urge Nigerians to renew faith in country

By Dayo Johnson
Akure

The PBAT Mandate Elders Forum in Ondo State has urged Nigerians to use the 66th Independence anniversary to celebrate the country’s achievements, strengthen national unity and renew their confidence in its future.

The Chairman of the Forum, Chief Demola Ijabiyi, made the call in a statement issued in Akure to felicitate Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary.

Ijabiyi said the occasion was an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s journey while acknowledging the resilience and patriotism of Nigerians.

“As Nigeria marks her 66th Independence anniversary, I congratulate Nigerians at home and abroad and salute the enterprise, resilience and patriotism that continue to advance our nation.

“This anniversary is an occasion to celebrate our achievements, strengthen our unity and renew our confidence in Nigeria’s future,” he said.

Ijabiyi said the Forum supported the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, arguing that they were laying what he described as a stronger foundation for investment, local production, employment and shared prosperity.

He said the Forum was committed to the continuation and consolidation of what he described as the positive outcomes of the reforms to ensure their benefits reached more households, businesses and communities.

“This is the basis of our support for President Tinubu’s re-election in 2027,” he stated.

Ijabiyi cautioned against what he described as “easy promises” that could return the country to past economic challenges.

“We believe the reversal of reforms advocated by the President’s opponents would deepen and spread the poverty from which President Tinubu is working to rescue our nation.

“Nigeria must march forward towards the prosperity these reforms are preparing for future generations,” he said.

The Forum chairman urged Nigerians to support Tinubu’s “renewed mandate” to deepen the reforms, expand opportunities and translate economic progress into improvements in living standards.

While acknowledging the sacrifices Nigerians had made, Ijabiyi expressed confidence that their patience and enterprise would contribute to a more prosperous future.

He also urged young Nigerians to embrace education, skills acquisition, technology and entrepreneurship, describing their talent and energy as essential to national development.

Ijabiyi called on political, traditional and religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence, stressing that political differences should not undermine national unity.

“Our diversity is a strength, and political differences must never weaken our common commitment to Nigeria’s progress,” he said.

“On behalf of the Forum, I congratulate President Tinubu and all Nigerians on this anniversary.

“Let us move forward with unity, patriotism and confidence, sustaining the foundations of prosperity for this generation and those to come. Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!”