As Nigerians celebrated the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, elder statesman, Chief Adesunbo Onitiri, issued a passionate appeal to the Federal and state governments to intensify efforts in tackling the widespread poverty and insecurity plaguing the country.
In a press statement issued in Lagos titled “Reminiscence and Expectations of Nigerians After 65th Independence Anniversary”, Onitiri acknowledged the initiatives of President Bola Tinubu’s administration in reviving Nigeria’s battered economy but stressed that much more needs to be done.
“With the enormous revenues flowing to state governments from the federation account, there is no excuse for poor performance. They must deliver more development and dividends of democracy to the people,” he said.
The elder statesman lamented that despite Nigeria turning 65 years, the nation is “still crawling” when it ought to have matured into a strong, self-reliant country. He painted a grim picture of the state of the nation:
Poor infrastructure and roads that have become “death traps”
Lack of potable water and uninterrupted electricity supply
Inadequate healthcare services
Rising unemployment and worsening poverty levels, which have earned Nigeria the tag of “poverty capital of the world.”
Onitiri noted that many Nigerians see little reason to celebrate the independence milestone, beyond the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of the current administration.
He expressed particular concern for the youth, who he said are either “japaing” (emigrating in search of better opportunities abroad) or resorting to crime and drug abuse.
“Our politicians are not ready to serve the people anymore but themselves, their pockets, families, and friends. Corruption has eaten deep into the fabric of the society,” he declared.
Onitiri emphasized that Nigerians’ expectations are simple: potable water, uninterrupted electricity, good roads, jobs for graduates, an enabling environment for businesses, and adequate care for the elderly.
“These are the minimal expectations of Nigerians. Nigeria we hail thee!” he said.
Nonetheless, he commended President Tinubu for his economic reforms and urged Nigerians to be patient and supportive of his administration as it works to reposition the country.
