Senators express hope for a better nation

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Members of the Senate on Wednesday reviewed the political, social and economic challenges confronting the country since its independence in 1960 and submitted that there was hope for Nigerians despite the current challenges.

The senators spoke after a motion moved by the Deputy Senate Leader, Bala Ibn Na’Allah, who noted that despite the nation’s challenges, the Federal Government under President Muhammadu Buhari, is moving forward as one indivisible country in character and aspirations.

He said Nigerians had a task to ensure that the labour of those who made the independence possible and those who worked tirelessly to keep Nigeria united, would not die in vain.

He also charged Nigerians to continue to demonstrate commitment to the unity and oneness of a nation of free citizens.

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, noted that it was clear that Nigeria should remain a one indivisible country.

He said, “We have made a lot of progress. We must build on our resources for sustainable development. I believe the future is bright and with cooperation of Nigerians, we will get there.”

The Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekwermadu, described national unity and good governance as essential ingredients in the nation’s quest for national development.

Ekweremadu reasoned that the nation’s founding fathers were able to achieve independence for Nigeria because they rose above political, ethnic, religious, and sectional cleavages.

He said, “Sadly, there is no doubt that the full blessings of political independence has continued to elude us. I, therefore, believe that the occasion of the 55th Independence anniversary is an opportunity for soul searching and retracing of our steps.

“We inherited a country where Nigerians won elections and held high political and civil service positions outside their places of origin. But this is almost unthinkable in the Nigeria of today. This is certainly not the type of freedom and country our founding fathers fought for.”

He, however, expressed strong belief that the nation would overcome her challenges.

Senator Solomon Adeola, representing Lagos West Senatorial District, Solomon Adeola predicted a brighter future for Nigeria and Nigerians.

The senator said that in spite of daunting challenges at present and a chequered past, Nigeria has survived as a nation, adding that the new administration of President Muhammadu Buhari was poised to effect necessary changes.

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