Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged citizens to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence as the country marked its 65th independence anniversary with a special Jumaat prayer in Abuja, the government said in a statement on Saturday.
Tinubu, represented at the National Mosque by Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris, said Nigeria could only achieve the dreams of its founding fathers if citizens lived together in peace, tolerated one another and worked hard.
“Differences will always exist, but the President’s message is one of hope, unity, and togetherness,” Idris said in the statement signed by Suleiman Haruna, Director of Public Relations at the ministry. “All Nigerians must imbibe these values so that, collectively, we can achieve the progress and prosperity that Mr President has promised since assuming office.”
The president acknowledged that the country was undergoing “transformation” but said his administration was making steady progress in tackling challenges. He appealed for patience, saying efforts were ongoing to “turn around the fortunes of the nation.”
Tinubu also congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary and called for continued prayers for the country and its leaders. “Nigeria at 65: All Hands-on Deck for a Greater Nation” is the theme of this year’s celebrations.
According to the statement, the president highlighted achievements under his administration, including “significant economic growth, improvements in security, notable progress in agriculture, and advances in other critical sectors.” He urged citizens to work “hand in hand” to sustain the momentum.
Also present at the prayers, Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Mohammed Abubakar Kyari said Nigeria was on a “trajectory to recover its lost glory in the community of nations.”
The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Traditional Council, His Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, joined in calling for peaceful coexistence and offered prayers for the well-being and prosperity of the nation at 65.