Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has urged Nigerians to take greater responsibility for the development of the country, stressing that nation-building is a collective task that requires the contribution of both government and citizens.
The Governor also insists that Nigeria of the the collective dream of our founding fathers and the citizens is still possible if we are prepared to work for it.
Uzodimma spoke Thursday at the Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kalu Square, Owerri
while delivering his Independence Day address in commemoration of the
66th anniversary celebration of Nigeria’s independence in October 1, 1960.ez
The Governor who acknowledged that Nigeria had survived political crises, economic difficulties, insecurity and other challenges over the past 66 years, however noted that the resilience of Nigerians remained a source of hope for the country’s future.
He challenged citizens to reflect on their individual contributions to national development, by asking: “What have I done to make Nigeria a better nation?”
According to him, patriotism should go beyond emotional attachment to the country, but must be demonstrated through responsible citizenship, respect for the law, tolerance and service to communities.
Uzodimma also recognised the economic difficulties facing households and businesses, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful, while calling on government at all levels to ensure that policies translate into improved living conditions.
He said his administration would continue to prioritise infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, human capital development, economic empowerment and security in Imo State.
The Governor called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and residents to support security agencies in maintaining peace across the State.
While commending the Armed Forces and other security personnel for their sacrifices, Uzodimma urged Nigerians to reject hate, violence and intolerance.
He said the country’s future could be secured when citizens and government work together, declaring: “The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we are prepared to work for it.”
The event featured parade by the police and paramilitary agencies, inspection of the guard on the parade by the Governor as well as match past by pupils/students, Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs)of government, and various groups in a show of patriotic display.
Highpoint of the celebration was the presentation of trophy and cash awards to 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions among participating pupils/students and MDAs in the match past; cutting of Anniversary cake and release of pigeons for peace and unity of the nation.
Those present include; the wife of the Governor, Barr. Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, the Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, and her husband, Chief Chukwuma Ekomaru (SAN); Acting Chief Judge, Justice Ijeoma Aguguo; Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chike Olemgbe, and members of the State Assembly; President of the Customary Court of Appeal, Mr. Victor Okorie.
Others were, the APC State Chairman, Chief Austin Onyedebelu and members of the State Working Committee; Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu leading members of the State Expanded Executive Council, heads of security and paramilitary agencies; the Chairman of the Imo State Council of Traditional Rulers/ Chairman of South East Council of Traditional Rulers, HRM Eze Dr. Emmanuel Okeke and his colleagues, Chairman of Imo State Elders Council/Co-Chairman of Southern Nigeria Traditional Rulers Council, HRH Eze Cletus Ilomuanya and his colleagues, Local Government Chairmen, Councillors, captains of industry, other stakeholders and opinion leaders in the State.
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