By Shehu Idris
Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma and the Catholic Archbishop of Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, have called on Nigerians to embrace unity, honesty and integrity as the country prepares to mark its 66th Independence anniversary.
They spoke on Sunday during a Special Thanksgiving Mass at Maria Assumpta Cathedral, Owerri.
Uzodimma said Nigeria’s resilience through civil war, military rule and economic crises reflected the sacrifices of millions of citizens, urging Nigerians to take greater responsibility for nation-building.
“Nigeria, at 66, is our country. It belongs to all of us,” the governor said.
Acknowledging the country’s economic challenges, Uzodimma said government must ensure that citizens’ sacrifices translate into improved living standards. He also urged Nigerians to reject dishonesty and promote accountability from the family and community levels.
In his homily, Archbishop Ugorji identified corruption, insecurity, poverty and inadequate energy supply as major obstacles to Nigeria’s development.
He called for an end to ethnic and religious divisions, stressing that national transformation must begin with individual responsibility and moral renewal.
“If we want a new Nigeria, we must become new Nigerians,” Ugorji said.
The archbishop also acknowledged the Imo State Government’s infrastructure and electricity initiatives, including the Orashi power project.