‘At 65, Nigeria Stands Tall as Africa’s Most Influential Voice Despite Turbulence and Setbacks’ – Sen. Nwoko

As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary, Senator Ned Munir Nwoko has called on citizens to embrace resilience and renewed commitment to building a nation that translates its vast wealth into well-being for its people.

In a goodwill message titled “Nigeria @65: A Nation Rising Beyond Challenges”, the Delta North lawmaker described Nigeria as a country that has endured turbulence, survived setbacks, and continues to stand tall as Africa’s most powerful voice.

“Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a work in progress, a story of resilience, promise, and determination. Ours is a nation that has survived turbulence, overcome setbacks, and yet continues to stand as Africa’s most powerful voice,” he stated.

Nwoko commended the strides of the present administration under the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting ongoing efforts to restore macroeconomic stability, curb reckless imports through local production, expand social interventions, and reaffirm Nigeria’s leadership across the continent.

He also praised Vice President Kashim Shettima’s address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly, particularly his push for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, sovereign debt relief, equitable access to trade and financing, fair resource ownership, and closing the digital divide with the vision that “AI means Africa Included.”

“These are not abstract declarations,” Nwoko emphasised. “They are the lived realities that define our struggle as a nation.”

Outlining his legislative priorities, the senator stressed justice through reparations and reconciliation, dignity through social security and education reforms, sovereignty through tackling crude oil theft and gas flaring, and opportunity through youth entrepreneurship, diaspora voting, and expansion of the digital economy.

He urged Nigerians to redefine the country at 65 as a nation of fulfilled potential rather than wasted opportunities.

“We must secure our communities, empower our youth, modernise our infrastructure, and build institutions that outlive individuals. We must insist that no Nigerian is left behind — not the farmer in the village, the entrepreneur in the city, or the vulnerable in need of support,” he said.

Nwoko added that Nigeria’s journey is far from finished but expressed optimism that strengthened collaboration between the executive and legislature, people-centred policies, and collective resilience could mark this decade as the turning point from survival to greatness.

“Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. As resilience meets hope, with courage we arise stronger,” the senator declared.