01/10/2023
*NIGERIA AT 63: REFLECTING ON OUR JOURNEY, NURTURING HOPE FOR THE FUTURE*
My fellow Nigerians,
As we mark the 63rd anniversary of our beloved nation's independence, we stand at a critical juncture in our history. This occasion beckons us to reflect, to look within, and most importantly, to forge a brighter path for every citizen.
The path that has led us here has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. The Edo people have a proud history of resilience and contributions to Nigeria. From the days of the Benin Empire to the present day, Edo people have played a pivotal role in shaping our nation. The sacrifices of our ancestors reverberate through time, reminding us of our duty to carry the torch of progress forward.
Today, we grapple with the harsh realities faced by our people. The soaring cost of living, the specter of insecurity that haunts our streets. Insecurity remains a pressing concern, with some communities in Edo State bearing a disproportionate burden. It is disheartening to witness the toll it takes on our people, as they grapple with fear and uncertainty in their daily lives.
The recent tragic loss of Greatness Olorunfemi is a painful reminder of the challenges that persist in our beloved nation. Greatness, a young soul full of promise, was unjustly taken from us, a victim of senseless violence.
The harrowing account of her passing, pushed from a moving car by heartless criminals, followed by the heartbreaking denial of medical care at Maitama General Hospital, is a stark illustration of the urgent need for improved security and healthcare services.
In the face of these trials, we find hope in the unity that has always been the bedrock of our strength. However, this unity is under threat. Tribal and ethnic prejudices, fanned by opportunistic politicians, seek to divide us. They exploit these divisions, aiming to perpetuate their hold on power, diverting our collective focus from the true enemy - the challenges that confront us all, the challenges they created.
As we look to the future, let us do so with unwavering determination. Together, we can build a Nigeria where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive, where quality healthcare and education are accessible to all, and where the specter of insecurity is banished from our land.
Let this 63rd Independence Day serve as a call to action. Let us, in our diversity, find the strength to overcome, for it is in our unity that our true power lies.
God bless Nigeria!
*Senator (Barr) Neda Imasuen*
Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District.