By Debby Lanta
For many Nigerians, Independence anniversaries are more than ceremonies and speeches. They are moments to pause, look back at the country’s journey and ask what each citizen can do to make tomorrow better.
In Plateau State, government officials and Christian leaders used this year’s anniversary to call for renewed commitment to responsible citizenship, righteous living and peaceful coexistence as part of efforts to confront the challenges facing Nigeria.
The call was made during an interdenominational church service at Nasarawa Baptist Church, Jos, organised around the theme, “Nigeria 66 Years After.” The service brought together government representatives, clergy and other stakeholders for prayers, reflection and discussions on the country’s journey since independence.
Representing Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, his Deputy, Mrs Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo, said the anniversary should not only be a time for celebration but also an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the difficulties confronting the nation and their individual responsibility in addressing them.
According to Mutfwang, Nigeria has passed through economic hardship, insecurity, political disagreements and social tensions, yet the country continues to draw strength from the resilience of its people.
He recognised the contributions of young people, farmers, entrepreneurs, professionals and security personnel, describing their efforts as part of what keeps the country moving despite its challenges.
The governor also challenged the Church to remain involved in finding solutions to social problems, saying religious teachings must go beyond the pulpit and help shape citizens who value integrity, justice, compassion and service.
“The Church cannot stand apart from the challenges of society; it must continue to be a voice for truth, justice, compassion, reconciliation and responsible citizenship.”
Mutfwang further urged Nigerians to embrace dialogue, forgiveness and justice, while assuring that his administration remained focused on building a Plateau State anchored on peace, security, good governance, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth.
For the President of the Plateau Baptist Conference, Rev. Dr. K. K. Saleh, the responsibility for a better Nigeria cannot be placed entirely on government or security agencies.
Drawing from Psalm 125, the cleric urged Nigerians to examine their relationship with God while also taking responsibility for their actions and communities.
Saleh said government, the Church and citizens each have a role to play in building a safer society, calling on leaders to govern with justice and citizens to uphold honesty and integrity.
“Vulnerability is not the absence of security presence. Vulnerability is the absence of God’s presence.”
He stressed that prayer must be accompanied by responsible action, noting that meaningful change requires individuals and institutions to take responsibility for how they conduct themselves.
Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, described the service as an opportunity to thank God and pray for Nigeria and its leaders, particularly at a time when Plateau State continues to contend with security challenges.
Ramnap said the people of Plateau had shown resilience over the years.
She explained that the state’s low-key Independence activities, including prayers held in both mosques and churches, were designed to encourage citizens to draw strength from their faith while continuing to work towards a peaceful society.
As Nigeria marks another year of independence, the message from Plateau was clear: prayers may provide hope, but building a better country also demands responsible citizens, accountable leadership, peaceful communities and a willingness by everyone to play their part.
