Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on Nigerians to join hands with government in building a stronger nation, stressing that nation-building is a collective responsibility.

Aiyedatiwa made the call on Thursday during the state’s celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The governor urged citizens to renew their commitment to peace, unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, saying the anniversary provided an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey and the responsibilities facing the present generation.

He said Nigeria’s founding generation left behind not a finished country but the responsibility to build, preserve and improve the nation.

According to Aiyedatiwa, independence should therefore be viewed not merely as a historical event but as an ongoing responsibility shared by every generation.

“Independence, therefore, is more than the memory of a date; it is a continuing responsibility to the past, the present and the future,” he said.

He asked Nigerians to reflect on what they had done with the inheritance handed down by the country’s founders and consider their individual contributions to the nation’s future.

The governor also expressed appreciation for the continued support and partnership between the Federal Government and Ondo State.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its efforts towards strengthening the economy, infrastructure and investment environment, while highlighting projects with potential implications for the state.

Aiyedatiwa specifically mentioned the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the proposed Deep-Sea Port among initiatives he said could expand Ondo State’s economic prospects.

He said the state looked forward to deeper collaboration with the Federal Government in the interest of its people and the wider development of Nigeria.

The governor also highlighted efforts by his administration across sectors including health, education, industrialisation, agriculture and security.

On electricity, he said the Ondo State Power Sector Law had strengthened the legal and institutional framework for the sector through the establishment of the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Commission.

He added that work was continuing towards private-sector participation in the 30MW Ore Independent Power Plant and other opportunities aimed at improving access to reliable and affordable electricity.

Aiyedatiwa urged Nigerians to remain committed to the country’s development despite the challenges confronting the nation.

He said the 66th anniversary should serve as a reminder that the responsibility for building a peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria could not be left to government alone.

The governor’s message was in line with the broader theme of the 2026 Independence anniversary, which focused on moving from economic reforms towards stability and shared prosperity. The Federal Government has said the next phase of its reform programme is aimed at translating economic stabilisation into jobs, higher incomes and wider opportunities.

Aiyedatiwa called on citizens to renew their faith in Nigeria and contribute to the nation-building process through responsible citizenship and collective action.