By Ofem Gift
Ekene Favour
Eze Ogochukwu
As Nigeria prepares to mark its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026, stakeholders and citizens have called for stronger leadership, improved education and greater commitment to national development.
The call was made during interviews conducted ahead of the Independence Anniversary, where respondents reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence and identified some of the challenges that continue to affect the country’s development.
The Anambra State Commissioner for Information and Value Reformation, Dr Law Mefor, said Nigeria had made progress over the years but still had the potential to do much better. He noted that the country’s large and diverse population makes national development a complex task, stressing the need for Nigerians to work together despite their ethnic differences.
According to the commissioner Mr Mefor he said, Nigeria’s diversity should not be viewed only as a challenge but also as an opportunity for unity and development. He stressed that Nigeria has the resources and human capacity to become a great nation and urged citizens and leaders to continue working towards national development. He also emphasized the importance of resolving issues that divide the country and building a stronger sense of national unity.
Speaking from the perspective of the education sector, Eze Ogochukwu, a student, called on government to give greater attention to education. She expressed concern over the rising cost of education, noting that the increase in school fees has made it difficult for some students to cope with their studies.
Also speaking to Rev. Father Anthony Nduaguda he said Nigeria had not done enough for the masses, particularly people who are struggling to meet their basic needs. He called for greater attention to the welfare of ordinary Nigerians and urged leaders to make policies that would improve the lives of vulnerable citizens.
Another respondent, Mr Paul Nwankwo, said the major responsibility before government is to identify the country’s problems and take practical steps to address them. He stressed the need for leaders to understand the challenges facing the nation and work towards fixing them.
As Nigeria approaches another Independence Anniversary, the views expressed by the interviewees point to a common desire for a country where leadership is centred on service, education is accessible and affordable, citizens should live with greater unity, and ensure national resources are effectively used for development. The reflections also reinforce the broader emphasis of Anambra’s Ministry of Information and Value Reformation on public communication, accountability and positive civic values.
Gift, Favour, Ogochukwu are for Anambra State Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State..
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