The governors Ondo and Delta states, Lucky Aiyedatiwa and Sheriff Oborevwori have urged Nigerians to inculcate virtues that project honour, sense of mission, purpose, national pride, sanctity and sacredness, among others.

The duo spoke in commemoration of the 64^th independence anniversary of Nigeria.

Mr Aiyedatiwa spoke on Tuesday in Akure, in a message to commemorate Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

The governor said Nigerians must have integrity, collective heroism, undying patriotism.

He said that they must refrain from escalating disruptive tendencies that portend hopelessness, despair and failure.

Mr Aiyedatiwa said that everyone in the state must be bonded in the desire to build a stronger and prosperous state that would be envy of all.

He said, “It is imperative that we become more statesmanlike in our conduct both in public and private. Let us embrace nobler passions, dialogues and productive engagements that unite rather than divide us as citizens of this great country. Let us inculcate virtues that project honour, sense of mission and purpose, national pride, sanctity and sacredness of our togetherness, pristine integrity, collective heroism and undying patriotism. We must refrain from escalating disruptive tendencies that portend hopelessness, despair and failure.’’

Mr Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the reality of harsh impacts of the transformative economic reforms in the country.

He, however, noted that it was important for the growth that would resonate with the transformational agenda of the state.

The governor stated, “Let me remind us of the need to be alive to our civic responsibility as we prepare for the November 16 governorship election in our dear state, which is a defining moment in our political history. We must all play by the rules and recommit ourselves to a peaceful and credible election. Let us be more bonded in our hope and desire to build a stronger and abundantly prosperous Ondo State. Together, let us continue to nurture our shared expectations, aspirations and hope of a glorious Ondo State.’’

On his part, Mr Oborevwori congratulated Nigerians on the country’s 64th Independence anniversary, urged all to work in unity to surmount the economic and security challenges facing the country.

The governor made the call in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, on Tuesday in Asaba.

He said Nigerians should work in unison, irrespective of political, religious and ethnic diversities, to ensure the nation overcame its present challenges.

He sent felicitations to President Bola Tinubu, the people of Delta and other Nigerians on this year’s Independence anniversary.

He urged the citizens to support the government’s efforts at salvaging the nation from insecurity and economic downturn.

He said, “On behalf of the government and people of Delta, I congratulate Nigerians as we celebrate the 64th anniversary of our country’s independence. As a country, we have been privileged to enjoy uninterrupted democracy since 1999 and it is imperative we continue to work hard in building on the gains of the last 25 years of unbroken democratic rule. October 1st is a day to celebrate and pay tribute to our country men and women who sacrificed so that we can celebrate this day; we should never forget the sacrifices of our heroes past.

“At 64, Nigeria has come a long way despite economic, security and political setbacks; it is important we remain strong, exercise patience and be of good faith in God and our nation’s

Leaders at this critical period.’’

Mr Oborevwori added, “As an administration, it is on record that we have recorded significant strides in the implementation of our MORE Agenda aimed at making life more meaningful for the people of Delta State since we came on board on 29th May, 2023.

As we celebrate this year’s independence anniversary, be assured that we will remain focused on delivering our agenda to the people of Delta.”

(NAN)