As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has emphasized that true freedom is defined by how it is used to serve, uplift, and support others.
Speaking on Sunday at the Interdenominational Church Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to commemorate the occasion, the governor said the celebration should rekindle hope and strengthen the belief that the nation’s brightest days are still ahead.
Represented by his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun recalled that Nigeria’s founding fathers dreamed of a nation where opportunities are equal, oppression is absent, and resources are shared fairly. He stressed that this vision can be realized if citizens uphold values such as patriotism, integrity, service, and collective responsibility.
He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, describing them as steps that are stabilizing the economy, attracting investors, and laying the groundwork for sustainable growth.
According to Abiodun, unity has been central to his administration’s progress in Ogun State, guiding achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and youth empowerment, in line with the president’s people-focused leadership style.
“Building a lasting nation requires dialogue, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence,” he added, urging citizens to look forward with optimism while reflecting on the country’s journey over the past 65 years.
Delivering the sermon, Rev. Johnson Akintomide, Bishop of the Awori Anglican Diocese, preached on the theme *“A New Nigeria Is Possible, the Time Is Now.”* He likened Nigeria’s challenges to the Israelites’ captivity in the wilderness, praying for divine intervention to deliver the nation from hardship, hunger, insecurity, corruption, and political instability.
He called on Nigerians to work with God by rejecting corruption, avoiding tribalism, and focusing on unity instead of cursing or blaming leaders, stressing that God is ready to do new things for the country.
Prayers were offered for Nigeria, Ogun State, political leaders, and traditional as well as spiritual institutions.
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