Nigeria still work in progress at 65 – Akume

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Nigeria remains a country still under construction, navigating challenges while pressing forward with resilience, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, declared at a press conference held on Monday, September 29, ahead of Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary.

The briefing is part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary amid celebrations under the theme “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation”.

Opening his address, Akume said, “Independence Day is more than a ceremonial date on our national calendar. It is a profound opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come as a people, celebrate our resilience, and renew our commitment to the ideals of unity, peace, and progress which our founding fathers fought so valiantly to secure.”

He acknowledged the nation’s journey since 1960, marked by “triumphs and trials, moments of joy and of testing”, stressing the unbroken Nigerian spirit.

He affirmed the nation’s capacity to rise after every storm: “We have endured challenges in governance, economy, security, and social cohesion. Our true strength lies in our capacity to consistently rise after every storm, to rebuild after every setback, and forge ahead with resilience and faith in our destiny as a great nation.”

The SGF underlined the call for unity and collective effort embedded in this year’s theme. “The responsibility of building a greater Nigeria is not the task of government alone but a responsibility for every citizen,” Akume emphasised. “All hands must indeed be on deck for us to realise the Nigeria we envision, which is a nation united in purpose, rich in diversity, and resolute in progress.”

He highlighted the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the “Renewed Hope Agenda” as the guiding framework for national transformation. “It is an agenda that speaks to national rebirth, inclusivity, and sustainable progress, thereby providing hope for our people, especially the youth who represent the future of this nation.”

Describing the role of his office, Akume said, “The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation plays a central coordinating role in translating this vision into reality. As the engine room of government, the office ensures policy coordination, inter-ministerial synergy, and effective implementation of the President’s priorities.”

On the economy, Akume acknowledged the boldness and difficulty of ongoing reforms but affirmed their necessity. “Already, we are witnessing positive results. Inflationary pressures are beginning to ease, foreign investment inflows are showing renewed interest, job creation initiatives are expanding opportunities for our youth, and social intervention programmes are being strengthened to cushion the effects of reforms on vulnerable groups. These gains, though modest, are a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda is on course.”

Detailing the Independence Day activities, he noted, “The Juma’at Service and the Interdenominational Church Service have already been successfully held, beginning the celebrations with prayers for peace, unity, and progress. Tomorrow, Tuesday, September 30, will host the Grand Finale of the National Campus Debate, showcasing the brilliance, creativity, and patriotism of our students across the nation. The presidential broadcast will take place on the morning of Wednesday, October 1.”

Akume concluded with a rallying call to Nigerians: “At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead. Let all hands truly be on deck for a greater, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.”

He also commended President Tinubu’s leadership and reaffirmed the Federal Executive Council’s commitment to effective policy formulation and implementation. Akume expressed deep appreciation for the media’s role, stating, “To the media, we owe deep appreciation for your invaluable role in shaping narratives, fostering unity, and growing our democracy.”