Nigeria at 65: DG NILDS Urges Citizens to Rekindle Hope for a Stronger Nation

By Julian Osamoto

As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Professor Abubakar  Sulaiman, has called on citizens to believe in the country’s future and actively participate in nation-building.

Professor Sulaiman made the remarks on Wednesday, October 1, in a felicitatory statement commemorating the milestone anniversary of Africa’s most populous nation.

Congratulating Nigeria’s leadership at all levels and citizens nationwide, he emphasised the need for sustained citizen engagement to build on the gains of nationhood achieved since 1960.

“While Nigeria may not yet be where it ought to be developmentally, our indivisibility, sovereignty, unity in diversity, demographic assets, and continued democratic consolidation remain key strengths in our journey as a nation,” Sulaiman said.

Highlighting the country’s achievements, the NILDS director pointed to governance reforms, best practices in bicameral legislature, and judicial sector improvements that have strengthened the justice system and upheld the rule of law. He also noted progress in socio-economic development, infrastructure, education, and Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements with the global community.

Professor Sulaiman who spoke in a message by his Media Adviser Mohammad Abdulkadri, urges Nigerians to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, engaging with government policies aimed at addressing critical national challenges, including poverty, hunger, and insecurity.

“Citizens must key into bold government programs designed to overcome these challenges and contribute positively to the country’s growth,” he added.

The director also advised Nigerians to embrace the values of unity, democratic participation, and collective effort, ensuring that the nation’s 65th year of independence heralds renewed hope for a prosperous future.