Sanwo-Olu urges Nigerians to match patriotism with action

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged Nigerians to move patriotism beyond Independence Day celebrations and demonstrate it through responsible citizenship, respect for others and active participation in building the country.

Sanwo-Olu made the call in his Independence Day message as Nigeria marked 66 years of independence on Thursday, urging citizens to draw on the resilience of previous generations while confronting the challenges facing the country.

He stressed that patriotism should be expressed through everyday conduct rather than reserved for national anniversaries.

He urged citizens to promote social cohesion, respect the rights of others, and contribute to national development, while also working with their leaders in pursuit of the common good.

He said, “As we celebrate the 66th Independence anniversary, let us recommit ourselves to doing what is right, work with our leaders for a better country and walk in unity as one family.”

The governor, who chairs the South-West Governors’ Forum, said the anniversary should serve not only as a commemoration of Nigeria’s freedom but also as a moment for citizens to reflect on the country’s journey and their own responsibility for its future.

He acknowledged that Nigeria had endured difficult periods since independence, including political and economic challenges, but said the country’s ability to survive adversity remained a reason for hope.

“As citizens, we must believe in our country and in our collective capacity to build the nation we all desire,” Sanwo-Olu said.

He urged Nigerians to see the country’s ethnic, religious and cultural diversity as a source of strength rather than division, saying the responsibility for preserving national cohesion extended beyond government.

The governor also paid tribute to the country’s founding fathers and other Nigerians, past and present, whom he said had contributed to keeping the country together despite its diversity.

He urged citizens, particularly Lagos residents, to draw inspiration from the determination of those who fought for independence and to recognise that nation-building remained an ongoing responsibility.

His message came amid a series of Independence anniversary reflections on the relationship between citizenship and the future of Nigeria.

Recall that at an interdenominational service on Sunday, Sanwo-Olu similarly called for prayers for Nigeria to be matched by responsible citizenship, hard work and action.

Sanwo-Olu said he remained confident in Nigeria’s future, arguing that the choices Nigerians make collectively would determine the country’s next chapter.

Nigeria became independent from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, and marked its 66th anniversary on Thursday.