The European Union and the British High Commission in Nigeria have reiterated their commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democracy as the nation turned 62 years after independence.

The envoys made the commitment on Saturday at Nigeria’s 62 independence anniversary celebration in Abuja.

Samuela Isopi, ambassador of the European Union to Nigeria and the ECOWAS, said Nigeria was a work in progress, just like any other country.

“No country is where they want to be, it is always a work in progress for every country, and I think Nigeria has really made a huge progress, especially if you think about democracy.

“Think about all the progress that has been made since the return to civilian rule, so I really think that Nigeria is a country with a huge potential.”

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Catrina Laing, said Nigeria at 62 years after independence calls for reflection on the bond between the UK and Nigeria.

“The democratic journey of Nigeria continues, and we congratulate Nigeria on that, and we look forward to a more prosperous, more secure future.

“There is always things we would like to see Nigeria do better, but there has been progress, and I think one really important progress is a democracy since 1999, stuck with it in a very unstable region.

“Nobody questions the president stepping down; everyone sees that Nigeria’s elections have continued to improve, there’s always room for improvement, but I think the Democratic journey is one great achievement for Nigeria.’’

Meanwhile, other Nigerians called for the need for citizens to be hopeful and unite to overcome the numerous challenges facing the country.

Mohammed Jammal, also known as “White Nigerian” said there were many things to be hopeful for as Nigeria celebrates 62 years of independence.

According to him, Nigeria is blessed with mineral resources, good people, good food, and agriculture, among others.

He, however, said the first step to moving the country forward was combating its myriad of challenges ranging from banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity.

“Once you fight insecurity, then you can now focus on education because with the insecurity now, a lot of children cannot go to school, and by the time you are not in school, all those kids will now be doing things they are not supposed to be doing,” he said.

Deputy commandant Odumosu Olusola, Director of Public Relations, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) National Headquarters Abuja, congratulated Nigerians for making it this far, adding that very soon, insecurity would become a thing of the past.

“From our own part at Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, we are also working in collaboration with other security agencies, and I want to assure you that the future is bright for this country.”

Amina Isah, Abuja Bureau Chief of Royal Newspapers, said Nigeria would overcome all her challenges in unity and with the collaboration of all stakeholders.

(NAN)