As Nigeria celebrates its Independence Day, business man, Politician and founder of the OAU foundation, Hon Onyekwere Akym Uche, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism and responsible citizenship, while expressing strong support for the developmental initiatives of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti.
OAU, in his Independence Day message, described the anniversary as an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence and recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, justice, progress and collective development.
He said Nigeria’s development requires citizens and leaders to work together in the national interest, stressing that meaningful progress can only be achieved when political differences are subordinated to the broader objective of improving the lives of the people.
The Philantropist particularly commended Gov Alex Otti for what he described as his commitment to transforming Abia State through infrastructure development, institutional reforms and policies aimed at repositioning the state for sustainable economic growth.
According to OAU, the visible changes recorded in different parts of Abia under the present administration demonstrate the importance of purposeful leadership and a clear development vision. He maintained that ongoing road rehabilitation and construction, improvements in public institutions and efforts to strengthen the state’s economic base are important components of the broader task of rebuilding Abia.
Akym urged the people of Abia to support initiatives that are designed to promote development, irrespective of political affiliations, arguing that governance should majorly be measured by its impact on the lives of the people.
He noted that Gov Otti’s administration inherited significant challenges but has continued to pursue programmes aimed at addressing infrastructure deficits, improving public services and creating a more conducive environment for investment and economic activity.
The Abia politician also called for greater cooperation between the government and citizens, stressing that government cannot single-handedly achieve sustainable development without the active participation of the people.
He encouraged Abians to protect public infrastructure, pay their taxes and levies, support legitimate government programmes and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities.
OAU further appealed to political leaders to place the interests of the people above personal and partisan considerations, noting that the essence of democratic governance is the promotion of the welfare, dignity and prosperity of citizens.
He said the Independence anniversary should also serve as a reminder that nation-building is a collective responsibility, urging Nigerians to resist ethnic and political divisions capable of undermining the unity and progress of the country.
According to him, the same spirit of unity and collective responsibility is required in Abia to sustain the development momentum under the Otti administration and ensure that ongoing reforms and projects translate into lasting benefits for residents.
“Independence Day is a time to celebrate our nation, but it is also a time to reflect on our responsibilities as citizens. We must continue to support initiatives that promote development and improve the lives of our people. In Abia, I commend Gov. Alex Otti for his commitment to rebuilding the state and creating a stronger foundation for sustainable development,” OAU said.
He called on the people of Abia to remain peaceful, law-abiding and supportive of genuine development efforts, stressing that the success of any administration depends partly on the willingness of citizens to cooperate with policies and programmes designed for the common good.
Hon Onyekwere Akym Uche also urged young Nigerians to become active participants in nation-building, describing the youth as indispensable to Nigeria’s economic transformation and future prosperity.
He expressed optimism that with responsible leadership, active citizenship, unity of purpose and sustained investment in human and physical infrastructure, Nigeria could overcome its challenges and realise its enormous potential.
OAU congratulated Nigerians on the Independence anniversary and wished the people of Abia State and the country at large greater peace, prosperity, stability and sustainable development.