Over 6 decades ago, our forebears, in a daring feat and common purpose, gathered together and struggled for the independence of our country Nigeria. The struggle gathered positive momentum and climaxed in the declaration of Nigeria’s independence on 1st October, 1960.
With hindsight, the motivations of our forebears were nationalistic; the unity, interest and future of Nigeria were the defining aspirations of their collective will. By their conduct, they were deliberate in defining our destiny and charting a course for our country as a united and indivisible entity, and did not leave our destiny in the hands of fate.
Today, 61 years after independence, we are grappling with some challenges. But despite our challenges, we are undaunted as ever in our resolve and pursuit of unity, prosperity and justice for our common destiny as a nation.
Marching on, in the words of Senator Cory Booker, “if you want a great nation, we have to change it ourselves.” As citizens, we must pledge anew our commitment to our national values of discipline, integrity and respect for diversity for our peaceful and harmonious coexistence as a nation.
As leaders, we must be true to ourselves and devoted to delivering the dreams our founding fathers envisaged for the freedom of purpose, prosperity of our people and unity of our nation.
On behalf of my family and the entire people of Alimosho Constituency II, I wish our nation a Happy Independence Day Celebration.
Hon Kehinde Olaide Joseph, is the honorable member representing Alimosho Constituency II, in the ninth (9th) Lagos State House of Assembly, also doubles as the Chairman House Committee on Agriculture.
