By Ali Abare

Today, Nigeria marks 65 years as an independent nation, while Nasarawa State celebrates its 29th anniversary. This double milestone is a solemn occasion to reflect on the journey of a nation and arguably one of its most promising states.

At the helm of affairs are two leaders, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Abdullahi Sule, who are navigating a path of reform and development amid global and local challenges. Their approach to governance, focused on long-term stability and unlocking inherent potentials, is shaping a new narrative for the country and state.

The significance of this day has been echoed from the federal to the state level. The Federal Government, while canceling the traditional parade, stressed that this in no way diminishes the importance of the milestone.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Independence Day as a profound opportunity for sober reflection and renewed patriotism.

He highlighted that the theme for Nigeria’s 65th anniversary, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” emphasises the collective responsibility of every citizen in the project of nation-building.

Similarly, in Nasarawa State, Governor Sule has released a personal statement to commemorate the state’s 29th anniversary. He warmly congratulated the people of Nasarawa, urging them to not only reflect on the progress made but also to celebrate the courage, resilience, and unity that define them as a people.

This parallel in messaging signifies a shared recognition of the challenges faced and the need for a united front to overcome them.

President Tinubu’s administration has embarked on a journey of far-reaching economic reforms. His government acknowledges the difficulties these policies have posed for Nigerians but maintains they are necessary to lay a foundation for sustainable growth.

The SGF has assured citizens that the administration is strongly committed to policy continuity and stability in governance, explaining that this continuity is not just a principle but a “moral obligation,” criticising the historical tendency to abandon projects and policies with each change of leadership.

“A road started by one administration should be completed by the next,” Akume stated, portraying President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a deliberate effort to build a system that outlives any single individual.

This focus on strengthening national institutions is presented as the key to breaking the cycle of abandoned projects and wasted resources. The President’s vision is to make government less about personalities and more about a system that consistently delivers for the people, a decisive turn for a nation as diverse and dynamic as Nigeria.

In Nasarawa State, Governor Sule is applying a similar philosophy of pragmatic and potential-driven governance. With a background as an engineer and former organized private sector executive, he brings a business-like approach to his administration.

He has reaffirmed his commitment to unlocking the vast potentials of the state and positioning it for sustainable growth and prosperity. His strategy involves fostering peace and creating an enabling environment for socio-economic development, which he sees as prerequisites for progress.

Governor Sule consistently pays tribute to the state’s founding fathers, acknowledging their sacrifices and connecting his work to the foundation they laid. This demonstrates a leadership style that is both forward-looking and appreciative of the past.

His administration is actively working on strengthening infrastructure, attracting investments, and expanding opportunities for all citizens. A practical example of his innovative approach to governance is the upcoming Inter-Security Agencies’ Unity Cup Football Tournament.

The state Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Yakubu Kwanta, explained that the Governor places a high premium on security and is using this tournament to promote peace and enhance inter-agency collaboration in the fight against crime, with the initiative showing how Governor Sule is leveraging non-traditional methods to achieve critical state goals.

The true test of leadership often lies in navigating difficult times, and both leaders have faced their share. The Federal Government has made tough decisions on the economic front, with reforms that have initially reduced the purchasing power of many Nigerians.

However, the government urges patience, comparing the process to a pregnancy that will soon lead to joy. Various government officials have pointed to early results such as taming inflation and renewed foreign investment as signs that the policies are beginning to bear fruit.

In Nasarawa, Governor Sule openly acknowledges the challenges the state has weathered over its 29-year history. He leads by celebrating the resilience of the people themselves, recognising that the state’s progress is built on the determination of its citizens.

His administration’s commitment is to keep working tirelessly to build a state of shared prosperity, a promise that is particularly meaningful in the face of ongoing hardships. The Governor’s focus on peace and an enabling environment is a direct response to these challenges, meant to create the stability needed for development to thrive.

As Nigeria looks ahead, the call from its leaders is for unity and collective effort. The federal government’s theme, “All Hands on Deck,” is a clarion call to all Nigerians and partners to support the landmark reforms and work together for the Nigeria of their dream.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, likened Nigeria at 65 to sapphire, a precious stone symbolising loyalty, truth, and wisdom—attributes he sees in the nation’s enduring journey.

In Nasarawa State, the future is seen through the lens of its unlocked potential. Governor Sule envisions a state positioned as a “reference point for prosperity”. The journey is far from over, but the direction is set.

The combined efforts at the federal and state levels, embodied by the reforms of President Tinubu and the developmental drive of Governor Sule, are geared toward steering the country and Nasarawa State toward a future of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

Indeed, the celebration of courage, resilience, and unity today is not just about honouring the past; it is about fuelling the determination needed for the work that still lies ahead.

Abare is the Senior Special Assistant on Media to Governor Abdullahi Sule.