Tobore Jerome
The gubernatorial candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the 2024 Edo state governorship election, Engr. Osarenren Derek Izedonmwen, has congratulated Nigerians on the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary, saluting their courage and resilience in the face of unprecedented economic hardship.
In a message released on Wednesday, he urged citizens to remain steadfast in the belief that the present storm will pass, encouraging households to adopt practical steps such as small gardens and cottage farms to ease the burden on their pockets.
“Today, as Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence, I salute the courage and resilience of our people. Despite facing the toughest economic challenges since independence, with rising costs, suppressed incomes, and hardship, Nigerians remain steadfast, proving to the world that our spirit cannot be broken.
“I urge every citizen to remain steadfast in the belief that this storm will pass and that together we will shape a brighter tomorrow. In our homes and communities, let us take small steps to ease the burden on our pockets, such as cultivating gardens and cottage farms where possible, to produce some of what we eat.” He stated.
Izedonmwen called on leaders at all levels to move beyond petty party politics and recommit to service, accountability, and nation-building by deepening democracy, empowering youth, and harnessing Nigeria’s vast resources for sustainable growth.
Stressing that unity is the bedrock of progress, he declared that with discipline, vision, and collective effort, Nigeria can achieve first-world status within three decades.
“We must also remember that true progress depends on good governance, patriotism, and active citizenship. I call on leaders at all levels, instead of clinging to petty party politics, to recommit themselves to service, accountability, and nation-building; to deepen our democracy, empower our youth, and harness our vast resources for sustainable growth.
“Above all, let us remain united, for unity is the bedrock of progress. With discipline, vision, and collective effort, Nigeria can rise to first-world status within three decades.” He added.
Paying tribute to the good and industrious people of Edo State, he praised their resilience, creativity, and unshakable sense of community as an enduring inspiration for the nation.
“To the good and industrious people of Edo State, I pay special tribute. Your resilience, creativity, and unshakable sense of community remain a shining example of what it means to be Nigerian. You embody the strength and determination that will carry our nation forward.” He concluded.
