As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has urged Nigerians to harness the country’s diversity as a source of strength, while remaining committed to justice, peace, tolerance and fair play.

Eno, in a goodwill message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians on Thursday, said the country had made “tremendous progress” across various aspects of national life despite the challenges that accompanied its nation-building journey.

He said Nigeria had remained “indivisible” and “indissoluble”, urging citizens to strengthen the bonds of unity that hold the country together.

“Today, we remain indivisible, indissoluble, united and dedicated to utilizing our diversity as a source of strength rather than division,” the governor said.

Eno said the anniversary should renew Nigerians’ commitment to the pursuit of the country’s national aspirations, anchored on justice, peace, tolerance and fair play.

“As we celebrate our Independence Day today, I pray that we remain committed to the pursuit of our national aspirations anchored on justice, peace, tolerance and fair play,” he said.

The governor also used the occasion to call for continued support for President Tinubu, particularly the economic reforms initiated by his administration.

He said the reforms were beginning to yield “tremendous results” across sectors and urged Nigerians to support the President as he prepares to seek another term in office.

“Let us continue to support President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, especially as he gets set to submit himself again to be returned to Aso Rock to deepen the economic reforms he has initiated over the last three years plus, which today are beginning to show tremendous results across sectors,” Eno said.

His appeal comes as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum, with Tinubu’s expected bid for another term increasingly featuring in political discussions.

The governor, however, placed his broader Independence Day message within the context of Nigeria’s journey as a nation, stressing the need for citizens to remain united despite their differences.

He congratulated Tinubu and Nigerians on the anniversary, expressing hope that the country would continue to make progress while remaining committed to the ideals that underpin its nationhood.