On behalf of the National Executive Committee (EXCO) and the entire membership of the Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI), I warmly felicitate with the Federal Government and all Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of our nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
As we commemorate this historic milestone, we are reminded of the courage, sacrifices and patriotic commitment of our founding fathers, whose vision and determination secured our independence on 1 October 1960. This anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on our national journey, celebrate our achievements and renew our collective commitment to building a peaceful, united, prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.
Despite the challenges confronting our nation, we have every reason to celebrate being an independent nation. Nigeria remains a country of immense potential, blessed with a resilient and resourceful people whose capacity to overcome adversity has continued to sustain our national journey. Our challenges should therefore strengthen rather than diminish our collective resolve to build the Nigeria of our aspirations.
We pay special tribute to the gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, the Nigeria Police Force, the intelligence community and other security and law-enforcement agencies whose sacrifices, courage and dedication continue to safeguard our nation, protect our citizens and preserve our peace, unity and territorial integrity. We honour those who have paid the supreme price in the service of our fatherland and acknowledge the dedication of those who continue to serve under difficult and often dangerous circumstances. Their patriotism and selfless service remain an enduring and invaluable part of our national story.
We encourage our security and intelligence personnel to remain steadfast and continue to do more in the discharge of their constitutional responsibilities. We also urge all Nigerians to support them by providing useful information, obeying the law and promoting peaceful coexistence in our communities, recognising that national security is a collective responsibility.
While acknowledging the progress made since independence, we are equally mindful of the challenges confronting our nation, particularly insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, poverty and the need for improved access to quality education, healthcare and other essential services. These challenges call for renewed patriotism, purposeful leadership, national cohesion and a shared sense of responsibility among all Nigerians.
As an association of distinguished alumni of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), AANI remains steadfast in its commitment to contributing to national development through policy advocacy, strategic engagement, constructive dialogue and responsible citizenship. We reaffirm our readiness to collaborate with governments at all levels, the private sector, civil society and other stakeholders in promoting policies and initiatives that advance good governance, national security, economic growth, social cohesion and sustainable development.
I sincerely appreciate all AANI members for their steadfast support, patriotism and contributions to national development in their respective areas of endeavour. I encourage you to remain unrelenting in your service to our dear nation and to continue to support laudable policies, programmes and initiatives that enhance the wellbeing and prosperity of all Nigerians.
As the nation approaches another important political season, I urge political leaders, political parties, aspirants, candidates and their supporters to conduct their activities in a peaceful, responsible and civil manner, devoid of rancour, hate speech, personal attacks and actions capable of deepening divisions among our people. Electioneering campaigns should be issues-based, enabling Nigerians to properly interrogate competing ideas, policies, programmes and visions for the future of our country.
Our democracy is strengthened when political competition is conducted with tolerance, mutual respect, civility and regard for the unity and stability of Nigeria. I therefore urge all political actors and stakeholders to place the national interest above partisan considerations and to embrace peaceful engagement and the rule of law throughout the electoral process.
On this auspicious occasion, I urge all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic, religious, political or regional affiliations, to strengthen the bonds of unity and uphold the values of tolerance, mutual respect, justice, patriotism and peaceful coexistence. Nation-building is a collective responsibility, and the Nigeria of our aspirations can only be achieved through shared commitment, sacrifice and concerted efforts.
As we celebrate this important national milestone, let us remain hopeful and resolute in our determination to overcome our challenges and realise the full potential of our great nation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where peace, justice, equal opportunities and prosperity are accessible to all.
I pray that Almighty God will continue to protect Nigeria, bless our leaders with wisdom and courage, strengthen our democratic institutions, protect our Armed Forces, Police, intelligence community and other security agencies, and grant them success in their efforts to secure our nation.
May God grant peace to our communities, comfort families affected by insecurity and other challenges, and bless the work of all Nigerians who contribute to the progress of our country. May He continue to preserve the unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and guide our nation towards greater peace, stability and prosperity.
Happy 66th Independence Anniversary, Nigeria!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Yours Towards a Better Society,
Ambassador Emmanuel Obi Okafor, mni
President
Alumni Association of the National Institute (AANI)