As Nigeria commemorates her 65th Independence Anniversary, the Kwara State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has urged all citizens and stakeholders to rise in unity and take decisive action against the prevailing insecurity in the country.
Emphasizing this year’s theme, “All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nigeria”, the Union admonished political leaders, traditional institutions, religious figures, and security agencies to collaborate more closely in stemming the tide of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping that threatens national stability.
In a joint statement by the Council Chairman, Abdullateef ‘Lanre Ahmed, and Secretary, Mahmood Olayinka Alaya, the NUJ stressed that insecurity would be drastically reduced if Nigerians, regardless of political or religious affiliation, stood together in unity and purpose.
The Union commended the gallant efforts of Nigeria’s security forces, especially the Army, Police, Forest Guards, and local vigilantes who remain on the frontline defending the nation’s territorial integrity and expressed confidence that, with adequate support, they would ultimately triumph over the violent non-state actors.
While calling on the federal government to urgently equip security agencies with modern and sophisticated weapons, the NUJ also appealed for stronger border protection to check the inflow of criminal elements and illegal arms that fuel unrest across the country.
On the economy, the Union urged the government to review certain policies contributing to widespread hardship, stressing that new taxes or fiscal measures should not further burden already struggling Nigerians.
The NUJ, however, acknowledged the efforts of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq in driving infrastructural development within the state, and assured of the Union’s continued partnership with government in achieving the vision of a new and prosperous Kwara.
As the nation reflects on its 65-year journey, the Union called on Nigerians to embrace patriotism, unity, and resilience, saying that the dream of a greater Nigeria can only be realized when everyone plays their part.
The NUJ extended warm Independence Day greetings to its members, the people of Kwara State, and Nigerians at large, while expressing hope for a more secure, prosperous, and united Nigeria.
