By Our Reporter
For 66 years, Nigeria has carried the hopes, struggles and dreams of generations.
But as the country marked another year of independence, Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, reminded Nigerians that building the country they desire would require more than celebration—it would require sacrifice.
Oborevwori made the call on Sunday during the 66th Independence Thanksgiving Service at the Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road, Asaba.
The Governor urged Nigerians, particularly leaders and public officials, to embrace the values of sacrifice, courage, patriotism and resilience, saying the responsibility of building a better Nigeria belongs to both the present and future generations.
He also paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers, whose sacrifices contributed to the country’s independence, and encouraged citizens to demonstrate their love for Nigeria by continuing to pray for its peace and prosperity.
According to him, the Church has an important role to play through its continued prayers and intercession for the nation.
Beyond prayers, however, Oborevwori stressed the need for those entrusted with public offices to remember the people behind the positions they occupy.
He urged politicians and public servants to govern with wisdom, integrity and a sense of responsibility, noting that every position of authority was held in trust for the people.
The Governor said public officials would ultimately give an account of their stewardship before God, urging them to place the common good above personal interests.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years of independence, Oborevwori said the journey was worth appreciating, particularly the progress recorded in democratic governance.
He also linked the peace enjoyed by individuals and communities to the overall peace of the country.
According to him, the relative peace in Delta State was not achieved by government alone, but through the contributions of traditional rulers, presidents-general, community leaders and other stakeholders, alongside what he described as God’s wisdom.
Earlier, the Presiding Pastor of the Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road Branch, Asaba, Pastor Samuel Johns, challenged Nigerians to take their responsibilities as citizens seriously.
He said nation-building required faith, patriotism, sacrifice and the willingness of citizens to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Johns expressed optimism that Nigeria was experiencing an awakening capable of unlocking the country’s enormous potential and restoring its place among nations.
He identified civic responsibility, love for the country, sacrifice and positive community impact as some of the responsibilities citizens must embrace, stressing that nations do not become great by accident.
Using Governor Oborevwori as a point of contact, the pastor also prayed for wisdom and guidance for leaders at all levels, asking God to help them manage the nation’s resources responsibly and serve the people with integrity.
For Nigeria, the message from the thanksgiving service was simple: independence may have been achieved 66 years ago, but building the Nigeria many citizens dream of remains a responsibility for everyone.
