The President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, has assured Nigerians that the country will overcome its present challenges and emerge as a peaceful, united and prosperous nation.
Dr. Akpabio gave the assurance at an Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Speaking on the theme, “Keeping Faith with Nigeria,” the Senate President urged Nigerians to reject tribalism, bitterness, religious intolerance and every form of division, stressing the need for unity and patriotism in building the Nigeria of their dreams.
He said the younger generation was looking up to the present generation of Nigerians to leave behind a country characterized by peace, unity, courage and prosperity.
“Our children are looking up to us. We must ensure that we leave behind a nation that reflects no tribalism, no bitterness, but one that evidences courage to overcome the travails that Nigerians are passing through on a daily basis,” he said.
Reflecting on the biblical account of Prophet Zechariah, Akpabio challenged Nigerians to consider what they see in the midst of the country’s challenges, particularly insecurity, religious conflicts, division and difficulties affecting the ability of citizens to pursue their livelihoods.
“The danger of division, bitterness and religious conflicts, inability to go to farm. Division even in Christendom. We want to see a peaceful Nigeria. We want to see a prosperous Nigeria,” he said.
The Senate President called on Nigerians to support efforts aimed at rebuilding the nation, stressing that with God on the side of the country, the aspirations of Nigerians for peace and prosperity would be achieved.
He urged Nigerians to demonstrate greater concern for one another and awaken a spirit of patriotism measured by service to fellow citizens and the nation.
“Let the angel awaken our nation once more. Awaken us from indifference to our neighbours’ suffering; awaken us from excusing wrong when it serves our interests; awaken in us a patriotism measured by service to one another and our country,” he said.
Dr. Akpabio also drew attention to Nigeria’s democratic journey, noting that the country had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule since the restoration of constitutional democracy in 1999.
He described the achievement as one for which Nigerians should be grateful to God, while emphasizing the responsibility of citizens and leaders to sustain democratic governance.
According to him, democracy thrives when elections are credible, institutions are respected and those entrusted with power remain accountable to the people.
The Senate President acknowledged the difficult economic reforms being undertaken by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that the reforms had required difficult decisions while recognizing the burden they had placed on many Nigerian families.
He, however, urged Nigerians to remain supportive of the administration’s efforts to transform the country’s economic potential into sustainable national development.
Senator Akpabio noted that Nigeria’s economy recorded a 4.43 per cent growth in the second quarter of 2026, while student loans were opening opportunities for education, road projects were progressing and new investment decisions in the gas sector were demonstrating continued confidence in the country’s economic potential.
He said the progress being recorded should encourage Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to the collective task of building a stronger nation.
The Senate President further urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country and working together across ethnic, religious and political divides to achieve a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.
Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, thanked God for guiding Nigeria through its journey of sacrifices, challenges and triumphs, while urging Nigerians to remain committed to the unity and development of the country.
He called on citizens to appreciate the nation’s progress over the years and continue to contribute positively to its growth and stability.
The Inter-Denominational Church Service brought together government officials, political leaders, religious leaders and other Nigerians to commemorate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary and offer prayers for peace, unity and prosperity.
EmemMaria Ntedodom Offiong nipr.
Deputy Director (Head: Information, Press and Public Relations)
28th September, 2026.
