The Federal Polytechnic Ayede has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to the growth and development of the country, saying the nation’s future depends largely on the collective efforts of its citizens.
The Rector of the Polytechnic, Dr. Isiaka Tunji Adelabu, made the call in a statement to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, issued on behalf of the Governing Council, led by Hon. Yakubu Dati, himself as Rector, other members of the Council, Principal Officers, staff and students of the institution.
In the statement, signed by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Sunday Adepoju, Dr. Adelabu described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence, celebrate its achievements and renew commitment to building a stronger nation.
The Rector saluted the founding fathers of Nigeria for their courage, vision and sacrifices, noting that their efforts laid the foundation upon which the country had continued to build.
He said, “As we celebrate 66 years of independence, we salute the founding fathers of our great nation for their courage, vision and sacrifices. Their contributions laid the foundation upon which the Nigeria of today has continued to evolve.”
Dr. Adelabu urged Nigerians not to lose confidence in the country, stressing that Nigeria remains endowed with enormous human and natural resources capable of driving sustainable development.
“We must continue to believe in Nigeria, work for Nigeria and pray for Nigeria. Our country has enormous potential, and the responsibility of transforming that potential into prosperity belongs to all of us,” he said.
He noted that building the Nigeria of the people’s aspirations required the collective efforts of government, educational institutions, the private sector, civil society and individual citizens.
He therefore urged Nigerians to demonstrate patriotism through hard work, integrity, innovation, peaceful coexistence and responsible citizenship, saying, “The Nigeria we desire will not be built by government alone. Every citizen has a role to play through integrity, hard work, patriotism, innovation, responsible citizenship and respect for our national values.”
The Rector also acknowledged the economic, educational and other reforms being undertaken across the country, noting that initiatives and innovations under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme and other interventions, had raised the hopes of millions of Nigerian students and young people.
He said these efforts were expanding access to education, skills development and opportunities for national development.
While acknowledging that challenges remained, he said Nigerians should also recognise the progress being recorded in various sectors and give constructive support to initiatives aimed at strengthening the economy, improving education, developing human capital and creating opportunities for citizens.
According to him, “We acknowledge the various reforms and innovations taking place across the economic, educational and other sectors of the country. Initiatives such as NELFUND, TVET and other interventions have raised the hopes of millions of Nigerian students and young people. While challenges remain, we must also recognise the positive developments emerging from these efforts and continue to support policies that strengthen our economy, improve education and create opportunities for our people.”
Dr. Adelabu particularly charged Nigerian youths to take advantage of opportunities in education, technical and vocational training, entrepreneurship, technology and innovation, stressing that they remain critical to the country’s present and future development.
He said the Federal Polytechnic Ayede, as an institution committed to technical and vocational education, would continue to equip young Nigerians with relevant knowledge and practical skills needed to contribute to the national economy.
“Our young people are not merely leaders of tomorrow; they are important contributors to the Nigeria of today. They must take advantage of opportunities in education, technology, entrepreneurship and skills development to position themselves and the country for a better future,” he stated.
The Rector emphasised the institution’s commitment to contributing its quota to national development through quality teaching and learning, skills development, research, innovation and the production of graduates capable of addressing contemporary national challenges.
“At Federal Polytechnic Ayede, we remain committed to producing graduates who are not only employable but also equipped to create opportunities, solve problems and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development,” he said.
He also called on Nigerians to make prayers for the country an important part of their Independence Day reflections, stressing that faith in Nigeria must be matched by individual and collective action.
Dr. Adelabu said, “Let us believe in Nigeria, let us work for Nigeria and let us pray for Nigeria. With collective determination, responsible leadership and responsible citizenship, we can build the Nigeria of our dreams.”
The Rector wished Nigerians a peaceful, prosperous and inspiring 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to renew their faith in the country and remain committed to its unity, peace and development.
