Today signifies another memorable and eventful period in the history of our existence as a people, nation, and independent entity. Nigeria has come a long way; 61 years of national trials, economic upturn, security challenges, the good and the bad, and above all progress, progress, and progress.
To us, the amiable residents and good people of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, it’s a twin celebration; the 61st Independence Anniversary of our dear country and the 25th Anniversary of the creation of our Local Government (Since October 1, 1996).
I must say that Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, being one of the 774 Local Government Areas in the country, has contributed immensely to the development of its immediate environment, Nigeria, and the world at large. “Undoubtedly, the two-decades plus of existence as a grassroots entity of Government is worth celebrating and had also offered the world to see the potentials and latent opportunities abound in Ifako-Ijaiye.
On behalf of the Executive, Legislative Arm, Management/Staffs, community leaders, and the good people of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government, I heartily rejoice with Nigeria and Nigerians on this occasion of her 61st Independence Anniversary. Irrespective of the challenges facing us as a united entity, we have always been passionately committed to the unity and progress of our dear Nation. I, therefore, implore all Ifako-Ijaiye residents to remain committed to the growth and progress of our dear country which cannot be achieved without unwavering perseverance and absolute dedication towards establishing unity and peaceful co-existence amongst all, regardless of our religious beliefs, tribal inclinations, regional differences, and ideological disconnect.
Nigeria is undoubtedly a richly blessed nation. It is the pride of the black race and an enviable stake amongst the comity of nations. As Nigerians, who make the majority and most active of the black population, we have a critical role to play towards sustaining peace, security, and Unity across the country, our continent (Africa), and the world at large. This requires grassroots commitment and support from all the Local Government Areas, as we are the closest government entity to the people.
It is an undoubting fact that the unity of Nigeria is not negotiable. As Government at all levels keeps making frantic efforts while connecting with the electorates, our core belief in attaining a peaceful Nigeria still resonates with possibility and positivity. I can assure you all that Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government remains committed to this. I, therefore, urge all the good people of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government to learn from the obstacles we overcame, especially as Nigerians, and the progress we made thus far, to help strengthen the plans that we have in place to put the Local Government, our dear State, and Nigeria back on the path of progress. It’s indeed a collective responsibility.
It is true that our journey to Nationhood and Democracy from 1960 to date had been characterized by upheavals and turbulences; yet we must cherish our commitment to remain united, in unison, and respect for one another. We must also acknowledge the strength and value of our diversity, with due understanding and recognition of the interests of various ethnic nationalities in our hearts.
As real patriots, we take pride in raising the flag of our dear country, because Nigeria is ours! Notably, Nigeria is a unique nation blessed in diversity; and in our diversity lies our strength.
It’s worthy of note that the problem of Nigeria is not Hausa, Igbo, or Yoruba neither is it in Christianity nor Islam. Indeed, the inability to tolerate, appreciate ourselves, and peacefully coexist is.
I hereby enjoin all Ifako-Ijaiye residents to accept their neighbours as they are. Respect their dignity and celebrate their differences. Be a friend to all and an enemy to none. This is the true ideal of a patriotic Nigerian.
Worthy of mention is that our dear Nation had had its unfair share of what threatens our unity, peaceful co-existence, togetherness, and entity in recent times. From the North to the East, West to the South, we had series of violent agitations and ethnic unrest. However, regardless of our religious differences, ethnic inclinations, and ideological beliefs, we have resolved to remain ONE and UNITED. This is worthy of commendation and a worthwhile feat to celebrate on this occasion of our 61st Independence Day Anniversary.
I urge all residents of our dear Local Government, Ifako-Ijaiye to persevere and be patient, while imploring all to be dedicated and unconditionally committed to sustaining our common values, historical feats, as we commemorate these 61 years sojourn and Unity of our dear fatherland, Nigeria.
Once again, I bring to all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora esteemed regards and best wishes from the entire good people of Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government in Lagos State, at this memorable occasion of our 61st Independence Anniversary.
Nigeria is ours and only we can make it better.
Happy 61st Independence Anniversary! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria! Long live Lagos State (the Center of Excellence)!! Long live Ifako-Ijaiye Local Government!!!
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