Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has urged Nigerians to see the true measure of freedom not in personal gain but in service to humanity, stressing that independence becomes meaningful only when used to build, bless and uplift others.
Abiodun stated this on Sunday at the interdenominational church service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The governor, represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the celebration should rekindle faith in the nation’s future.
He noted that Nigeria’s founding fathers envisioned “a nation where no man is oppressed, where opportunities abound for all, and where the wealth of our land is shared equitably,” adding that the dream remains achievable if citizens embrace patriotism, integrity, service and shared responsibility.
“We must summon the courage to move beyond despair into a future bright with possibilities. Today’s gathering is to affirm our gratitude to God, to recognize the blessings we have received, the struggles we have overcome and the boundless potential that lies ahead,” Abiodun declared.
The governor lauded President Bola Tinubu for what he described as “bold socioeconomic reforms” under the Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the policies were already attracting investors, stabilising the currency and laying the foundation for inclusive prosperity.
Abiodun also highlighted unity as the cornerstone of his administration’s achievements in Ogun State, pointing to notable progress in infrastructure, health care, education and youth empowerment.
He urged Nigerians to strengthen dialogue, understanding and peaceful coexistence, saying sustainable nation-building thrives only in harmony.
In his sermon titled “A New Nigeria is Possible, the Time is Now”, the Diocesan Bishop of Awori Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev. (Dr) Johnson Akintomide, likened Nigeria’s challenges to the biblical captivity of the Israelites, noting that the country has been weighed down by hardship, hunger, insecurity, injustice and corruption.
The cleric, however, expressed hope that God would deliver the nation.
“We must not dwell on the past. God is ready to do a new thing in Nigeria, but national transformation requires cooperation with Him—through persistent prayers, raising Godly leaders, rejecting corruption, shunning tribalism, and supporting good governance,” Akintomide admonished.
The bishop congratulated President Tinubu and Governor Abiodun on the independence milestone, while urging governments at all levels to prioritise justice, education, peace and security in order to build a strong, united and prosperous Nigeria.
Special prayers were also offered for the nation, Ogun State, political leaders, and traditional and spiritual institutions.
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