The minority caucus in the House of Representatives has called for urgent political and economic reforms to address the country’s deep-rooted challenges and set the path for sustainable development.

Minority leader Kingsley Chinda (PDP-Rivers) stated this in a statement to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary. He said that the anniversary should not only be a time of celebration, but a moment for sober reflection.

Mr Chinda said that the distribution of resources must prioritise every Nigerian, regardless of zone, religion, or ethnicity.

“We must face the uncomfortable truth that our political and economic structures need deliberate and timely reforms. We must be fair, frank and firm. It is only when we are true and factual about our state of nationhood that the country can wriggle out of stymied development towards achieving her full potential as a prosperous country.

“Indeed, as a nation, we face issues of governance and a lack of inclusive economic growth that has left vast segments of our population trapped in poverty. The recurring problems of insecurity, hunger, youth unemployment and infrastructure deficits are persistent obstacles to our nation’s development.

“The ideals of equity, fairness and justice, which should bind us together, are sadly, being strained, resulting in divisions that threaten national cohesion and development,” he said.

Mr Chinda paid tributes to the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and heroes past who gave everything for the independence being enjoyed today.

The lawmaker urged leaders at all levels to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the welfare of citizens and uphold accountability, stating that nation-building is a continuous, collective task.

He also called on Nigerians to recommit themselves to peace, unity, and development, while embracing the nation’s diversity as a strength rather than a weakness.

“As no single group, no matter how powerful, can achieve meaningful progress in isolation, it is imperative for us to unite as one nation. It is only through a shared sense of purpose, understanding, and cooperation that we can overcome our difficulties and emerge stronger.

“On this day, we call on all citizens to renew our hope and commitment to a greater Nigeria. May we rise from the ashes of our challenges and build a nation that fulfills the dreams of our founding fathers and the expectations of future generations,” he said.

(NAN)