By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The Vice-Chancellor of Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba (PAAU), Prof. Salisu Ogbo Usman, has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to national unity, peace, excellence and responsible citizenship as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Usman said Nigeria’s independence anniversary should go beyond celebration, providing an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its achievements and confront the challenges limiting its development.
The Vice-Chancellor made the call in an Independence Day message personally signed and issued on behalf of the university’s Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff and students.
He said Nigeria, at 66, remained a country of immense potential, blessed with human and natural resources capable of driving sustainable economic growth and prosperity.
According to him, despite prevailing socio-economic challenges, the resilience, creativity and determination of Nigerians remained sources of hope for a better future.
Usman urged citizens to uphold the values of unity, peace, patriotism, justice and responsible citizenship, stressing that nation-building should not be regarded as the sole responsibility of government.
He said government, institutions, communities and individuals must work collectively to build a peaceful, united and prosperous country.
The Vice-Chancellor also urged Nigerians to support constructive initiatives and contribute positively to national development in their respective communities and professions.
He identified education as critical to Nigeria’s future, saying universities must continue to serve as centres of knowledge, innovation, character formation and solutions to national challenges.
Usman reaffirmed PAAU’s commitment to academic excellence, research, innovation, character development and community service.
He said the university would continue to prepare graduates with the skills and values required to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development and the global community.
The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, the university’s Governing Council, Management, Senate, staff, students and other stakeholders for their contributions to the growth of the institution.
He urged Nigerians to use the 66th anniversary to strengthen the bonds that unite the country, renew their faith in its future and pursue excellence in their various endeavours.
“With our collective responsibility, mutual respect and sustained commitment to national development, we can contribute to building the Nigeria we all desire,” he said.
Usman wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Independence Anniversary and prayed for continued progress for PAAU, Kogi State and Nigeria.
