As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, citizens have called on governments at all levels to take urgent steps to ease economic hardship and improve living conditions across the country.
They also urged leaders to review existing policies and introduce practical measures capable of stimulating economic growth, creating opportunities and reviving key sectors of the economy.
Speaking on the occasion, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ondo State Chapter, Prince Ademola Olapade, expressed concern over the difficult economic situation confronting workers and other Nigerians.
He urged President Bola Tinubu and Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to ensure that the assurances contained in their Independence Day messages translate into tangible improvements in the lives of the people.
Also speaking, former Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Victor Olabimatan, highlighted some of the achievements of the Tinubu administration, particularly its structural reforms and efforts to reposition the Nigerian economy.
Olabimatan, however, acknowledged that some of the reforms have brought significant economic challenges to citizens, but expressed optimism that the policies would eventually produce positive results.
A Commissioner in the Ondo State House of Assembly Service Commission, Ola Oguntimehin, stressed the importance of national unity and peaceful coexistence in building a stronger Nigeria.
He called on Nigerians to look beyond religious, ethnic, gender and political differences and work together for the development of the country.
Other citizens who spoke with Orange FM identified good governance, accountability, the fight against corruption, job creation and economic relief measures for vulnerable Nigerians as critical steps towards achieving sustainable development.
As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, the citizens’ message is clear: the nation’s vast potential must be matched with effective leadership, inclusive policies and concrete action capable of improving the lives of the people.
