At 66, Nigeria’s Bond Stronger Than Forces Of Division — DESOPADEC Director Izoukumor

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Chief Favour O. Izoukumor, Executive Director, Social Services, Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, DESOPADEC, has urged Nigerians to renew faith in the country, saying the bonds that unite the nation remain stronger than forces of division.

In his goodwill message to Nigerians at home and in diaspora, Izoukumor felicitated with citizens on the October 1 anniversary, describing it as one of the defining milestones in the nation’s history.

“October 1, 1960, remains one of the defining milestones in our nation’s history. On this day, Nigeria took its place among the community of independent nations, following decades of sacrifice and struggle by our nationalist leaders,” he said.

He paid tribute to nationalists and patriots who laboured for independence and to men and women whose resilience shaped present-day Nigeria.

According to him, Nigeria has evolved from a nation of approximately 45 million people at independence to over 230 million citizens, remaining the most populous black nation on earth.

Izoukumor celebrated Delta State, which he said was created from the defunct Bendel State and is endowed with vast oil and gas resources, contributing significantly to the economic sustenance of the federation.

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He described Deltans as resilient, industrious, hospitable and enlightened people whose contributions continue to enrich the Nigerian project.

The DESOPADEC Director acknowledged that Nigeria’s journey has been marked by economic difficulties, insecurity, political upheavals and nation-building challenges, but noted that the spirit of Nigerians has remained unbroken.

“We survived a devastating civil war, endured years of military rule and, since 1999, sustained an unbroken democratic dispensation,” he stated.

He called for deeper commitment to unity, peace, good governance, justice and shared prosperity, urging leaders and citizens to build a nation where every citizen finds opportunity, dignity and belonging.

He prayed that the Green-White-Green flag continues to symbolise unity and hope, and that the labour of heroes past shall never be in vain.

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