As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko (Delta North) has called on Nigerians to embrace resilience and renewed commitment to building a nation where the country’s vast wealth is translated into wellbeing for its people.
In his goodwill message titled “Nigeria @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges”, Senator Nwoko described Nigeria as a nation that has weathered storms, endured setbacks, yet continues to stand tall as Africa’s strongest voice.
“Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a work in progress, a story of resilience, promise, and determination,” he said.
“Ours is a country that has survived turbulence, overcome setbacks, and continues to stand as Africa’s most powerful voice.”
The lawmaker applauded the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, citing efforts to restore macroeconomic stability, reduce reckless imports through local production, expand social interventions, and reaffirm Nigeria’s continental leadership.
He also commended Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, particularly his advocacy for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, sovereign debt relief, equitable access to trade and financing, fair resource ownership, and bridging the digital divide so that, in Shettima’s words, “AI means Africa Included.”
“These are not abstract declarations,” Nwoko stressed. “They reflect the lived realities that define our national struggle.”
Outlining his own legislative priorities, the senator pledged to pursue justice through reparations and reconciliation, dignity through social security and education reforms, sovereignty by tackling crude oil theft and gas flaring, and opportunity through youth entrepreneurship, diaspora voting, and digital economy expansion.
“At 65, Nigeria must redefine itself as a nation of fulfilled potential rather than wasted opportunities,” he added. “We must secure our communities, empower our youth, modernize infrastructure, and build institutions that outlive individuals.
“No Nigerian must be left behind, not the farmer in the village, the entrepreneur in the city, or the vulnerable in need of support.”
While noting that Nigeria’s journey is far from complete, Senator Nwoko expressed optimism that stronger collaboration between the executive and legislature, coupled with people-centered policies, can make this decade the nation’s turning point.
“Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. As resilience meets hope, with courage we arise stronger,” he concluded.
