As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has expressed optimism about the country’s future, asserting that it holds greater promise than the past.
Addressing a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Akume described the Independence Day celebration as more than a symbolic occasion, saying it represents “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.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s trajectory since 1960, the SGF acknowledged the nation’s mix of achievements and challenges, but emphasized that the “Nigerian spirit has remained unbroken.” He highlighted the theme of this year’s celebration — ‘Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation’ — as a call to collective responsibility, stating, “It reminds us that building a greater Nigeria is not the task of government alone but a responsibility for every citizen.”
Akume commended President Bola Tinubu’s “visionary leadership,” noting that the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda has become the blueprint for national progress. He said the SGF’s office remains instrumental in translating the agenda into “a lived reality for Nigerians” by enhancing policy coordination and inter-ministerial collaboration.
Commenting on ongoing economic reforms, he acknowledged their challenges but stressed their necessity. “We are all aware of the economic reforms initiated by this administration. They are bold, sometimes difficult, but necessary steps aimed at stabilising our economy, restoring investor confidence, and laying a foundation for long-term growth,” he said.
According to Akume, early indicators of recovery are already visible. He pointed to easing inflationary trends, renewed investor interest, growing employment opportunities, and bolstered social intervention programmes targeted at supporting vulnerable populations during the reform process.
In outlining the Independence anniversary activities, Akume mentioned events such as the national campus debate scheduled for September 30 and President Tinubu’s broadcast to the nation on October 1.
“As we celebrate this milestone, let us reflect on our shared responsibility to build a greater nation. Government is playing its part; citizens too must play theirs,” he urged. “Let all hands truly be on deck for a greater, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria.”
