Nigeria @66: Yilwatda, Mark Urge Unity, National Resilience

By Ademu Idakwo and James Kwen, Abuja

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, have felicitated with Nigerians on the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary, urging unity, resilience and renewed commitment to national development.

Professor Yilwatda, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, described the anniversary as a moment to celebrate the resilience, unity and enduring faith of Nigerians in the greatness of their country.

He congratulated Nigerians at home and in the Diaspora and commended citizens for their sacrifices, patience and determination in navigating the country’s challenges, noting that Nigeria has consistently demonstrated the capacity to overcome adversity and move forward.

The APC National Chairman said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu inherited a difficult economic situation and took politically difficult decisions to undertake fundamental reforms to correct longstanding structural distortions.

These, he said, include the removal of petrol subsidy, reforms to the foreign-exchange market, efforts to strengthen domestic revenue mobilisation, monetary and fiscal reforms, and measures to attract investment and strengthen productive sectors.

He acknowledged that the reforms have involved significant short-term sacrifices but said there are measurable signs of macroeconomic stabilisation.

“The World Bank has reported stronger economic growth, improved fiscal and external positions, rising foreign-exchange reserves and a more stable foreign-exchange market as important outcomes of the reform programme. Nigeria’s real GDP grew by 4.2 per cent in the first half of 2026, according to the World Bank, while gross foreign reserves reached $51.9 billion at the end of July 2026,” Yilwatda said.

He pointed to developments in the energy sector, investment, digital economy and social protection as evidence that the reform programme is moving beyond stabilisation towards structural transformation.

“We acknowledge the progress that has been recorded and, more importantly, recognise that the work is not finished. Economic stabilisation will now translate more rapidly into improved household incomes, employment, food security and greater opportunities for our people,” he said.

Yilwatda assured Nigerians that the APC would continue to support policies that promote economic growth, national security, social inclusion and institutional development, and urged citizens to reflect on the country’s journey and participate actively in the democratic process ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“On this 66th Independence Anniversary, let us celebrate Nigeria, believe in Nigeria and continue to work together for the Nigeria we all desire. Our best days are still ahead of us,” he said.

Similarly, Senator David Mark, in a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Kola Ologbondiyan, described independence as a defining milestone and a testament to the resilience and courage of the Nigerian people.

The former Senate President said the 66th anniversary should be an opportunity for sober reflection and renewed determination to build a Nigeria where justice, equity, security and prosperity are accessible to all.

“At 66, our nation has every reason to celebrate, but we must also reflect deeply on our journey as a people. Independence was not simply the termination of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our collective responsibility to build a nation founded on justice, unity, peace and shared prosperity,” Mark said.

He stressed that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength, not division, and called on leaders and citizens to place national interest above personal and sectional considerations.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Our diversity should remain a source of strength, not division. We must continue to promote national unity, mutual respect and inclusion, while ensuring that every citizen, regardless of ethnic, religious, political or geographical background, has a sense of belonging,” he added.

Mark acknowledged the sacrifices of the founding fathers, past leaders, members of the armed forces and ordinary Nigerians, and urged political leaders to see public office as a solemn trust for service.

He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite current challenges, expressing optimism that with visionary leadership and patriotism, the nation can fulfil its potential.

“As we celebrate Nigeria at 66, let us renew our faith in our country and recommit ourselves to the task of building the Nigeria we desire and deserve,” Mark said.