As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Chief Mulade Sheriff, PhD, has called on Nigerians and leaders across the country to reflect on the nation’s journey since independence and renew their commitment to unity, peace, good governance and national development.
Mulade, the Ibe-Sorimowei of the Ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Coordinator of the Centre for Peace and Environmental Justice (CEPEJ) and National Treasurer of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), made the call in his Independence Day message to Nigerians.
He congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary, commending the resilience of citizens and the efforts that have kept the country together despite its ethnic, religious, political and socio-economic diversities.
According to him, Nigeria’s 66 years of nationhood provides an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s achievements and challenges, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, economy, sports, energy, industry, transportation and the development of socio-political institutions.
He urged Nigerians to also look ahead and consider the future of the country’s young population, stressing the need for greater investment in their education, skills and overall development.
Mulade expressed concern over the deterioration of infrastructure and the migration of young Nigerians in search of better opportunities, attributing the situation to a combination of socio-economic and political challenges, including poor leadership, economic hardship, insecurity and corruption.
He called on leaders and citizens to work collectively towards reducing corruption and political bitterness, while strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance.
He also advocated sustained investment in infrastructure, quality and affordable healthcare, as well as measures to guarantee the security of lives and property.
2027 Agenda for Warri Federal Constituency
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Mulade also outlined what he described as his development agenda for the Warri Federal Constituency, where he is seeking election to the House of Representatives on the platform of the National Democratic Party (NDP).
He said his proposed agenda would focus on major economic and infrastructural projects aimed at addressing developmental challenges in the constituency.
Mulade identified peace, unity and collaboration among the major ethnic groups in the constituency, including the Itsekiri, Ijaw and Urhobo, as important factors for sustainable development.
He described Warri Federal Constituency as an area with a long history and abundant natural resources, particularly oil and gas, but noted that ethnic and communal conflicts had affected the ability of the area to fully harness its opportunities.
He said his aspiration was to contribute to restoring peace and unity in the constituency and promote development that would benefit its people.
Mulade further stated that elections should go beyond political parties, stressing the importance of individuals with commitment, loyalty, discipline and the capacity to work for the development of their communities.
He urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s past while collectively working towards a more prosperous future.
“Long live the Warri Federal Constituency. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
