Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reassured Nigerians that the nation’s judiciary remained committed to its responsibility of efficient and effective dispensation of justice.
Kekere-Ekun gave the reassurance in a goodwill message to Nigerians on the occasion of the 66th independence anniversary of Nigeria.
Equally celebrating the country’s independence, some state governors expressed confidence in both the government and the country, even as they sought unity, peace, and sacrifices among the people.
But some prominent opposition leaders, on Thursday , feasted on President Bola Tinubu’s 66th Independence Anniversary speech, picking holes in many of his submissions and suggesting what they would have done differently if they were in his shoes.
Reflecting on the 66 years of Nigeria as a nation, Kekere-Ekun stated that the country was able to overcome and fix many of its challenges through the determination and resilience of its people.
She said, “Through it all, the Nigerian spirit has remained a source of strength. The strength of a nation is ultimately measured not only by its economic or material progress, but by the quality of its institutions, the fairness with which its laws are administered and the trust that its people place in one another and in those entrusted with public responsibility.”
While observing that the judiciary had a particularly important place in the national endeavour, the CJN stressed, “As the guardian of the rule of law and an essential pillar of our constitutional democracy, the Judiciary remains committed to the fair, impartial and timely administration of justice.”
She stated that the leadership recognised that public confidence in the justice system was determined by the integrity, independence, and humanity with which justice was administered.
She called on all Nigerians to continue to cherish their common identity and to approach their differences with understanding, tolerance, and a shared commitment to the greater good.
The CJN stated, “Our diversity, when guided by mutual respect and a sense of common purpose, should remain a source of strength rather than division. As we celebrate this anniversary, let us also remember those whose sacrifices, in different fields of national service, have helped to preserve our freedom and sustain our democracy.
“Let us honour their contributions by doing our part, however modest, to leave Nigeria stronger, more just and more united for those who will come after us.”
She added, “On behalf of the entire Nigerian Judiciary and on my own behalf, I wish all Nigerians a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary. May the Federal Republic of Nigeria continue to prosper and may the hopes and aspirations of her people find greater fulfilment in the years ahead.”
Makinde Highlights Record, Seeks Unity
Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday , called on citizens to appreciate the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding heroes and remain united in the face of current challenges, regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
Makinde made the call during the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration held at Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Speaking on the theme, “Dealing Decisively with Insecurity, Banditry and Terrorism Through Community Participation, Awareness and Policing,” Makinde, represented by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, stated that Nigeria’s independence in 1960 was earned through the sacrifices and relentless struggles of the country’s founding fathers.
He stressed that the freedom enjoyed today was a product of the labour of heroes past and should inspire every citizen to be responsible and committed to nation-building.
Makinde added that the anniversary offered an opportunity for sober reflection on the challenges confronting both Nigeria and Oyo State, stating that independence has taught Nigerians how to govern themselves within the principles of democracy and the rule of law.
He emphasised that unity remained non-negotiable for Nigeria’s progress. With over 250 ethnic groups living together as one corporate entity, he said the country’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than division, urging Nigerians to cultivate the ability to stay united.
Makinde stated, “We must appreciate our heroes past for what they did to achieve and attain independence in 1960. Independence was earned through their sacrifices and countless struggles. The freedom we enjoy today is a result of their labour.
“As we reflect on our nation’s journey since 1960, we must acknowledge the challenges we face in all ramifications. As a state, we also have our own challenges in Oyo State. This day calls for sober reflection on the issues confronting us at both the national and state levels.”
He added, “But we must also appreciate that independence teaches us—at both national and state levels—how to govern ourselves. And we cannot govern ourselves without upholding the rule of law and the tenets of democracy.”
In Spirit of Independence, Mbah Pardons, Commutes Sentences, Releases 13 Inmates
In commemoration of Nigeria’s 66th independence anniversary, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah approved the pardon, release, and commutation of sentences of 13 inmates of the Nigerian Correctional Centres, Enugu State.
That was in exercise of his power of Prerogative of Mercy under Section 212 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and in consultation with the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, Enugu State.
According to a statement by his media aide, Uche Anichukwu, the governor’s approval was conveyed to Comptroller, Nigerian Correctional Service, Enugu State Command, by Chief of Staff to the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, OsinachiNnajieze.
The beneficiary inmates were Kenneth Ozioko, Moses Saliyat, Promise Ndudim Olung, Chijioke Ugwu, Samuel Ani, and Eugene Odo.
Others were Celsus Emeachi, Caleb Jatto, Calistus Eze, Gabriel Onu, Timothy Ani, Ernest Okeke, and Ejike Nwodo.
While some of the inmates were pardoned and released, some had their death sentences commuted to life imprisonment.
Mbah’s decision was predicated on reports of ill health and proven reform in character, and following recommendation by the Correctional Services to the Advisory Council on Prerogative of Mercy, chaired by the state Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
Membership of the council comprised representatives of Nigerian Correctional Service, Carmelite Prisoners Interest Organisation(CAPIO), and Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace (CIDJAP), among other reputable bodies in the justice sector.
Section 212 (1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) provides, “The Governor may (a) Grant any person concerned with or convicted of any offence created by any law of a state a pardon, either free or subject to lawful conditions; (b) grant to any person a respite, of the execution of any punishment imposed on that person for such an offence; (c) substitute a less severe form of punishment for any person for such an offence; or (d) remit the whole or any part of punishment for any punishment imposed on that person for such any offence or of any penalty forfeiture otherwise due to the state on account of such an offence.”
Section 212 (2), however, provides that the powers of the governor under Subsection (1) shall be exercised after consultation with an advisory council of the state on the prerogative of mercy as may be established by law of the state.
Better Nigeria Achievable through Sacrifice, Unity and Accountability, Declares Sani
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, said a better Nigeria was achievable through unity, sacrifice, and accountability.
In his message to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Sani urged Nigerians to work collectively towards building a country worthy of the sacrifices of its founding fathers.
He said the country’s progress depended on peace, security, responsible governance, and improved opportunities for citizens.
The governor commended Tinubu’s leadership, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, stating that the collective efforts of citizens remains essential to achieving a better nation.
He urged Nigerians to honour the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers by making independence meaningful through peace, security, and improved opportunities.
Sani stated, “This anniversary invites us to honour our founding fathers, whose courage transformed the yearning for freedom into the sovereign nation we proudly call our own.
“Their enduring legacy entrusts every generation with the responsibility to make independence meaningful in the lives of our people.”
Sani said Nigeria had recorded 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. He stressed, however, that democracy must deliver security, opportunity, and improved wellbeing to citizens.
He assured that his administration would continue to work with the federal government to improve public safety in Kaduna State.
He said, “Peace and stability are indispensable to the fulfilment of our aspirations. A farmer must be able to cultivate his land, a trader open her shop and a child attend school without fear.”
The governor also urged Nigerians to reject division and embrace the country’s diversity, stressing that the country’s differences should be a source of strength rather than division.
He stated, “To the people of Kaduna State, I reaffirm an abiding conviction: our diversity is our strength, and our shared humanity must guide our relationships.
“Let us reject prejudices that weaken our bonds and resist attempts to turn our differences into instruments of division.”
Aiyedatiwa: Nation-building Requires Collective Effort
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, declared that building the Nigeria of citizens’ dreams required the collective efforts of all Nigerians. Aiyedatiwa urged citizens to take greater responsibility for the country’s development rather than leaving nation-building solely to government.
He made the comments at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Akure, during the state’s celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
The governor called for renewed faith in the country, patriotism, unity, and responsible citizenship.
According to him, the generation that secured Nigeria’s independence 66 years ago did not bequeath a finished country to succeeding generations, but a responsibility to build, preserve and improve the nation.
“Independence, therefore, is more than the memory of a date; it is a continuing responsibility to the past, the present and the future,” the governor said, challenging Nigerians to reflect on what they have done with the national inheritance entrusted to them.
He said the country’s progress could not be achieved by government alone, stressing that citizens, irrespective of their political, religious, ethnic or social differences, have important roles to play in building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
“The Nigeria we desire will not be built by government alone, but by the collective efforts of its citizens,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The governor also urged political leaders, party members, and young Nigerians to bring maturity and restraint to the unfolding electoral process. He warned against violence and appealed to political actors to embrace issue-based engagement and respect citizens’ right to participate peacefully.
“I particularly appeal to our political leaders, party members and young people to eschew violence, embrace issue-based engagement and respect the right of every citizen to participate peacefully,” he said.
Eno: Despite Challenges, Nigeria is Making Steady Growth
Akwa Ibóm State Governor, Umo Eno, said in spite of the initial challenges of nation-building, Nigeria had made tremendous progress across all layers of national life.
Eno, in a goodwill message to celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, congratulated Tinubu and all Nigerians on the anniversary.
The message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Ekerete Udoh, said, “Today, we remain indivisible, united and dedicated to utilising our diversity as a source of strength rather than division.
“As we celebrate our Independence Day today, I pray that we remain committed to the pursuit of our national aspirations anchored on justice, peace, tolerance and fair play.
“Let us continue to support President Bola Tinubu, especially as he gets set to submit himself again to be returned to Aso Rock to deepen the economic reforms he has initiated over the last three years plus, which today are beginning to show tremendous results across all sectors.”
Aliyu, Idris Urge Nigerians to Sustain FG-State Synergy to Defeat Banditry, Others
Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, and his Kebbi State counterpart, Nasir Idris, called for greater collaboration between the federal and state governments to defeat banditry and other forms of criminality bedevilling the country.
Aliyu made the appeal in his goodwill message to the people of Sokoto State to mark the 66th independence anniversary.
He commended the support of the federal government in the fight against banditry in the state and stressed the need for the support to be sustained.
The governor expressed optimism that stronger synergy would make insecurity a thing of the past.
“There is a strong synergy between the Sokoto State Government and the Federal Government of Nigeria in our collective commitment towards protecting the lives and property of our people,” he said.
The governor listed some of the interventions by his administration to complement conventional security agencies, including the provision of over 200 patrol vehicles, two bulletproof vehicles for emirate councils, 100 Buffalo APCs, 200 motorcycles, 3,200 security hardware, 2,000 bulletproof vests, and 200 night-vision goggles.
Other interventions, according to him, included 100 thermal-vision scopes, facilitating the full operationalisation of the Nigerian Air Force Base, Sokoto, upgrading the DSS tracker from 4G to 5G, and establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps.
He added that the government procured 40 Hilux vans and 700 motorcycles for the corps and facilitated the establishment of a military barracks in Illela and a Police Mobile Barracks at Tara village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area.
Aliyu reassured the people of the state of his administration’s determination to bring an end to banditry and appealed to citizens to support security agencies with useful information.
For his part, Idris urged Nigerians to keep hope alive, remain united, and continue to pray for leaders at all levels as the country marked its 66th Independence anniversary.
Idris described Independence Day as a moment of national pride, sober reflection, and renewed hope for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
He stated, “Today, we honour our founding fathers whose sacrifices gave birth to Nigeria, while celebrating the resilience of our people, particularly the people of Kebbi State, who continue to uphold peace and productivity.”
The governor said his administration had embraced people-centred governance, stating that Kebbi now paid N75,000 minimum wage, above the federal government benchmark.
He also said the government had cleared more than N10 billion in gratuities and death benefits.
He added that N2.11 billion was recently released to settle the entitlements of 772 retirees and bereaved families, while over 2,000 schools had been constructed and renovated and 2,000 professional teachers recruited.
On healthcare, Idris said 22 general hospitals, 179 primary healthcare centres, and 63 dispensaries had been revitalised, with over 2,200 health workers recruited to strengthen delivery.
On infrastructure, he cited the construction of the ultra-modern State Secretariat named after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, dualisation of 88 roads, reconstruction of Kayan Gwari Market, and deployment of over 800 mass transit buses.
Bago Sues for Sustained Peace, Unity
Niger State Governor, Alhaji Mohammed Bago, charged the people to build on the peace and unity existing in the state for its continued progress.
Bago said without unity and peace the developments recorded in the state over the years would be eroded.
In the independence message by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Bago explained that Nigeria had made significant progress in its journey of nationhood from 1960 because the people demonstrated tolerance, resilience, strength, and unity, and by also sticking together as one entity, despite cultural diversity.
“Nigeria is a blessed nation with abundant human, natural, and capital resources,” he said, adding that Niger State has experienced development by successive administrations. Bago said the present administration was working assiduously to ensure peace and tranquillity.
“As we celebrate the 66th year of nationhood, I urge all residents of Niger State to reflect deeply on our success stories rather than discouraging ones,” he declared.
AbdulRazaq Tasks Nigerians to Reflect on Resilience, Renew Commitment to Nation
Kwara State Governor and Chairman, Nigeria Governor’s Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, charged all Nigerians to see Independence Day as a time to reflect on their resilience, diversity, and shared identity, and to renew commitment to building a nation of choice. AbdulRazaq stated this in Ilorin at the celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day held at Rasidi Yekinni Sports Stadium.
The governor saluted the citizens for their manifest courage, enterprise, creativity, and determination against all odds.
While congratulating President Bola Tinubu and the entire citizenry on the anniversary, he urged citizens to reject violence, criminality, hate speech, and embrace peace and collective security.
He stated, “Today, as we celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, I warmly congratulate the people of Kwara State and Nigerians at home and abroad.
“Independence Day is a time to celebrate our resilience, diversity and shared identity, but also to renew our commitment to building the Nigeria we desire.
“Despite our challenges, Nigerians continue to demonstrate courage, enterprise, creativity and determination—our greatest national assets.”
AbdulRazaq used the occasion to highlight his government’s scorecard, citing projects that impacted lives, most especially in education, agriculture, health sectors, and urban renewal.
He said the government had continued to strengthen the agricultural value chains and livelihoods of farmers through the KwaraSAPZ, L-PRES and other interventions, which he said had continued to expand opportunities for over 100,000 farmers, agro-logistics hubs, rural roads, and mechanisation support.
Chuks Okocha, Michael Olugbode, Sunday Aborisade, Alex Enumah, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Kuni Tyessi in Abuja, Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan, John Shiklam in Kaduna, Fidelis David in Akure, Okon Bassey in Uyo, Onuminya Innocent in Sokoto, Laleye Dipo in Minna, Hammed Shittu in Ilorin, Yemi Kosoko in Jos, Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt, Sylvester Idowu in Warri and Boniface Okoro in Umuahia
Follow us on:
