Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has charged Nigerians to view the country as a shared inheritance and treat its future as a collective responsibility, emphasizing the moral character and shared values required to build a stronger nation.
The Governor gave the charge during a Special Interdenominational Church Service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun noted that citizens owe future generations a united, peaceful, prosperous and just country, urging all Nigerians to look beyond current challenges and focus on upcoming possibilities.
"When we speak about development, we must also speak about the values that hold society together," Abiodun said. "Government cannot build a prosperous society alone. There is a need for citizens to work hand-in-hand with the government to build a robust nation."
He commended the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, expressing optimism that these policies would translate into enhanced infrastructure, improved livelihoods and greater economic opportunities.
Highlighting achievements at the state level, Abiodun reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding economic programs, strengthening public institutions and investing in human capital until the end of his tenure.
"The true measure of governance is not simply the projects commissioned, but the lives improved and opportunities created," he added.
Addressing political leaders and religious bodies as future elections approach, the Governor urged religious leaders to preach peace, mutual respect and responsible civic engagement. He stressed that political differences must not disrupt national unity or Christian fellowship.
"We can disagree without becoming enemies, compete without violence and defend our convictions while respecting the rights of others," he stated.
Delivering the sermon titled "A Call to Repentance" (drawn from Joel 2:12–14), the Archbishop of Lagos and Bishop of Remo, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Olusina Fape, called on Nigerian leaders and citizens to humble themselves, turn away from corruption and seek God’s guidance.
Archbishop Fape identified greed as a major driver of systemic corruption in the country, warning against disguising corrupt practices as public relations.
"Nigeria is not where it should be today because infrastructural decay persists, health and tertiary institutions struggle, and businesses have folded up," Fape remarked. "However, we must thank God that incidents of banditry and kidnapping have reduced."
The cleric commended Governor Abiodun for his developmental strides in Ogun State and urged residents to reject politics of hatred in favor of peace and unity.
The service concluded with special prayers offered for the nation, Ogun State, the executive arm of government and traditional institutions.
