Nigeria At 61: We Have No Reason To Lose Hope – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, says there is no reason for Nigerians to lose hope in the country.

Gatekeepers News reports that the Lagos State Governor, South West Nigeria, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, says there is no reason for Nigerians to lose hope in the country, even in the midst of challenges.

Sanwo-Olu added that as the country celebrated her independence, citizens were mindful of the various challenges confronting them as a nation and as a state.

He noted that the citizens are equally mindful of the various vistas of progress that have opened up, and which continue to give them hope that the “Nigeria of our dreams can be achieved”.

Sanwo-Olu said this during a programme to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary celebration on Friday, at the Agege Stadium, Lagos.

Sanwo-Olu said, “Sixty-one years ago, the struggle of our forefathers and nationalists to free our country from the shackles of colonialism and attain the status of a sovereign and independent nation came to a happy ending with the lowering of the Union Jack and hoisting of the Green White Green Flag.

“In the years since then, so much has also happened to us as a country.

“We have fought a civil war, experienced several coups, and ultimately overcome military dictatorship and restored democratic governance.

“This year marks the 22nd year since we began to enjoy uninterrupted democracy, which is itself a huge feat, considering that all previous attempts were short-lived.

“Even in the face of the many challenges confronting us as a people and as a nation, my message to every Nigerian at this time is that we have no reason to lose hope.

“There is enough evidence around us of the fact that while we are not yet where we would like to be as a country and a people, we are also no longer where we used to be.”