The Federal Government of Nigeria declared Monday, October 3, 2022, as a public holiday to commemorate the nation’s 62nd anniversary of independence which is officially on Saturday, 1 October.
Rauf Aregbesola, Minister of Interior, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated all Nigerians on the occasion.
In a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Shuaib Belgore, Aregbesola assured of the government’s commitment to addressing all of the nation’s challenges and bringing smiles to all of the people, reiterating Nigeria’s eminent position in the comity of nations and the country’s greatness ahead.
He said “The world is going through dire economic and security challenges which have also affected our nation. However, I am assuring us all that the government will not abandon the people, but will continue to confront all these challenges with all the might at our disposal until respite comes our way.”
“Our warmth, welcoming spirit and love as well as our unbounded human capital and the richness of our land, make Nigeria unarguably the leading black nation in the world and Africa’s pride and beacon of hope. If we can rally ourselves together to harness our potential, we shall be the greatest nation on the earth,” he added.
The Minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion to reflect on the nation’s challenges and the role individuals can play in addressing them.
“A country of over 200 million people whose natural talents, grit and passion glitter like the precious diamond that we are; Nigerians are sparkling like diamonds in the pack, whether in academia, science and technology, business, innovation, music, entertainment, fashion or culture.”
While wishing Nigerians a memorable Independence Day, he reminded them that the founding fathers came together for Nigeria’s independence despite differences in faith, tribe, and tongue.
He stated “Though our nation is going through challenges, especially on security, these challenges are temporary and do not define us. We are defined by the greatness of the Nigerian people in our diversity, strength, ingenuity and resilience.
As a result, he urged all Nigerians to join hands with the Muhammadu Buhari Administration in its efforts to ensure a better Nigeria for all citizens, both at home and abroad, as this would be a fitting tribute to our heroes of the past.
Independence Day is an official national holiday in Nigeria, observed on October 1st. On October 1, 1960, Nigeria declared independence from British rule.
And we at Forsige wish all Nigerians a very happy independent day!