Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has declared that Nigeria is undergoing a rebirth under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as a leader demonstrating the courage to take critical decisions that past administrations avoided.

Abiodun stated this on Wednesday at the 65th Independence Anniversary celebration held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta. He said Tinubu’s economic reforms reflect the urgent needs of Nigerians as well as global realities of the 21st century.

The governor stressed that Nigeria’s journey to greatness requires the active support of citizens, urging Nigerians across religion, ethnicity, political affiliation, and social class to unite in the task of nation building.

“The theme of this year’s celebration, ‘All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation’, is timely and instructive. Building a stronger Nigeria is not the sole responsibility of government; it is a collective duty of every Nigerian at home and abroad,” he said.

Abiodun noted that Ogun State remains central to the nation’s prosperity, with its history deeply linked to Nigeria’s struggles and triumphs. He maintained that his administration has gone beyond “political promises and empty power-point projects” by delivering tangible results across sectors.

“This celebration is not only about marking the passage of time but about reaffirming our collective resolve to choose freedom, unity, and shared prosperity envisioned by our founding fathers,” he added.

The governor emphasized that democracy remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s progress, empowering citizens to hold leaders accountable and serving as a stabilizing force for inclusive development.

“Despite our economic challenges, our democracy continues to evolve. Democracy remains our surest path to stability, prosperity, and unity,” Abiodun concluded.

Other dignitaries also lent their voices at the event.

Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide, said Nigeria’s challenges should be seen as signs of growth, urging citizens to stop complaining and start contributing positively.

Chief Judge of Ogun State, Justice Mosunmola Dipeolu, called for sustained prayers, saying the country is on the verge of overcoming its difficulties.

Former Military Governor, Major-General Seidu Balogun (rtd), reflected on his tenure, describing it as a period of laying foundations for the state’s industrial growth, and commended past and present leaders.

Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, admonished Nigerians to stop cursing the country, noting that current reforms show the nation is on the right path to recovery.

Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, stressed that national greatness would only be achieved if Nigerians work together and refrain from negative narratives.

In his opening remarks, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, said the celebration was an opportunity to mark Nigeria’s 65th independence and to thank God for His mercy over the nation.