By Gloria Ikibah
As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to building a peaceful, united and prosperous country.
Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency of Abia State, gave the message in an Independence Day statement issued on Tuesday. 
He congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, saying the occasion should renew patriotism and faith in the country.
He said: “I warmly congratulate our dear President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR and Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of our nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
“Today, we celebrate the journey of our great nation, the resilience of our people, and the enduring spirit that continues to bind us together as one indivisible country.
“As we mark 66 years of independence, let us remain hopeful about Nigeria’s future and committed to building a nation where peace, unity, opportunity and prosperity are accessible to all”.
The Deputy Speaker commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration, saying its reforms and initiatives were laying the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to exercise patience and embrace collective responsibility, expressing confidence that the sacrifices being made would produce better outcomes in the future.
“The bold reforms and transformative initiatives of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under the Renewed Hope Agenda continue to lay the foundation for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
“With patience, perseverance and collective responsibility, I am confident that the sacrifices of today will yield a better tomorrow. Our diversity is our strength. Our resilience is our identity. And our shared love for Nigeria remains the bond that unites us,” Kalu added.
Kalu also called on citizens to use the anniversary to reflect on their individual responsibilities towards the country and contribute to building a better society.
He prayed that the anniversary would strengthen Nigerians’ commitment to the country and inspire them to work towards a better future.
“May this Independence Anniversary renew our patriotism, strengthen our faith in Nigeria and inspire us all to play our part in building the Nigeria of our dreams. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the Deputy Speaker said.
