NIGERIA AT 65: Oborevwori Calls for Unity, Peace and Progress

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity and avoid actions that divide the nation as the country marks its 65th independence anniversary.

Speaking on Wednesday at the Cenotaph, Asaba, during the Independence Day ceremony, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, emphasized that the day should be seen as a time to honour the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers, reflect on national progress, and commit to building a prosperous future.

According to him, “the true strength of Delta lies in its people; as we mark Nigeria’s independence, let us also embrace independence in our daily lives: Independence from ethnic division and rivalry. Independence from dependency, by embracing hard work, enterprise and creativity. Independence from forces that divide us, by uniting under the common banner of One Delta.”

Oborevwori noted that Independence Day is a moment to “remember, reflect, and renew.” He added:

“We remember the sacrifices of our founding fathers and the many heroes who fought for the freedom we enjoy today. We reflect on our journey as a nation, the victories, the struggles and the lessons. And we renew our commitment to the values of unity, peace and progress.”

The governor also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the anniversary, praying for God’s guidance in steering the country towards prosperity, peace, and security.

Highlighting his administration’s achievements, Oborevwori said Delta is pursuing sustained infrastructure development in highways, flyovers, urban renewal, drainage systems, and waterways.

He added that his government is also upgrading hospitals, equipping them with modern machines such as dialysis units, CT scans, and 4D ultrasound scanners, while providing free healthcare for pregnant women, children under five, widows, and senior citizens.

From right to left: Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, who represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, Member representing Ika Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Victor Nwokolo, and his Isoko Federal Constituency counterpart, Rt.Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko, and the Chairman Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Orodje of Okpe, HRM, Major General Felix Mujakperuo (Rtd), during the 65th independence anniversary at the Cenotaph, Asaba on Wednesday.

On education, he stressed the importance of preparing youths for the digital age through ICT hubs and training centres, while supporting the vulnerable with job creation programmes and social welfare schemes.

The governor noted that peace and security remain top priorities, assuring that the state has made remarkable progress in stabilizing its waterways and collaborating with security agencies.

He urged youths to channel their energy into positive ventures, saying:

“You are not just leaders of tomorrow but change makers of today.”

He also encouraged elders, traditional rulers, and the private sector to continue preserving culture, promoting peace, and partnering with government to attract investments and create jobs.

Governor Oborevwori concluded with a call for renewed faith in God and one another as the nation turns 65:

“As we celebrate 65 years of Nigeria’s independence, let us renew our faith in God and in one another. Let us hold on to peace, unity, security and justice. That is the only way to build a stronger Delta and a greater Nigeria. Happy Independence Day.”

The ceremony featured an inspection of the Guard of Honour, march-past by military and para-military agencies, and was attended by top government officials, traditional rulers, and dignitaries.