Former President Goodluck Jonathan has stated that Nigeria has come a long way, making measured strides in various sectors and overcoming countless obstacles in her journey to nationhood since Independence in 1960.
Jonathan stated this in a statement he personally posted on his social media handles on Tuesday to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration.
“Over time, we have indeed made modest progress in our hopes and shared dreams as citizens of our nation. We have had sustained democracy in this 4th Republic for 25 years, after seeing the end of military rule in 1999.
“We have recorded perceptible growth in our economy and our gross domestic products (GDP). We have continued to sustain our unity and belief in the social fabric of our nation,” he said.
The former President, however, noted that the citizens still face significant challenges that test their resolve and resilience as a people, adding these border on the nation’s inability to meet their goals and expectations on security, economic growth, national cohesion, and general infrastructure development.
He said, for the country to deepen the roots of her democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, she must strengthen her institutions and develop a good democratic culture that would support peaceful, transparent, free, and fair elections.
“This is the basis for good governance, sustainable democracy, national unity, and peaceful coexistence,” he noted.
Dr. Jonathan said, “As a nation, we must recommit to the principles of justice, equity, and inclusion. We must harness our diversity, tap into our youth’s potential, and leverage our natural resources for the benefit of all.”
He encouraged Nigerians to remain optimistic, resilient, and committed to the nation’s greatness, despite the odds.
“With a common purpose, zeal, and love for one another, we can overcome our challenges and build a prosperous nation of our collective dreams, where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive,” he said.
