The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Senator David Mark, has reflected on Nigeria’s 65 years of nationhood, describing the journey as one of resilience in the face of daunting challenges.
He acknowledged that the nation has gone through many trials and emphasized that Nigerians must not lose faith in their collective ability to rebuild and reposition the country for prosperity.
In his goodwill message to commemorate the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Senator Mark urged citizens to draw strength from history and confront present realities with courage and unity.
“Sixty-five years ago, we lifted the flag of freedom and declared ourselves a sovereign people. That moment was not just the end of colonial rule; it was the beginning of our responsibility to build a nation worthy of our hopes.
Today, we look back with mixed emotions and gratitude for how far we have come, but concerned over the storms that still threaten our future.”
He noted that the country stands at a critical juncture, weighed down by insecurity, unemployment, inflation, food scarcity, and the collapse of industries.
“Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youths are losing hope to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings, while factories close and businesses relocate, leaving despair in their wake. Families struggle daily to put food on the table. These are harsh truths we can not deny.”
Despite these difficulties, Senator Mark stressed that Nigerians must not give in to despair. He reminded citizens that the great nations of today were also built through periods of severe hardships.
On security, he called for urgent investment in intelligence, modern technology, and the welfare of security personnel while addressing the deeper causes of violence, poverty, injustice, and exclusion.
On the economy, he pressed for a revival of local industries, stronger support for small and medium-scale businesses, and an environment where investment can flourish.
On youth empowerment, Senator Mark advocated equipping young people with relevant skills in technology, agriculture, innovation, and the creative sector beyond mere tokenism.
On food security, he urged renewed investment in agriculture, efficient storage systems, and fair distribution channels to ensure that Nigerian produce first serves Nigerian households.
Above all, he called for a rebirth of unity and sacrifice; the same spirit that won independence in 1960.
“No nation is ever too broken to be rebuilt when her people are determined. At 65, our burdens are real, but so is our resilience. Our hope must outweigh our despair, and our strength must carry us forward. Let us recover faith in our nation, work hand in hand, and rebuild the promise of Nigeria.”
Senator Mark further enjoined Nigerians to embrace the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) as the party of choice and a credible platform that upholds democratic values. He assured that if entrusted with the responsibility of leadership, the ADC would rebuild the nation and restore hope to its citizens.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to use the lessons of the past as a guide to make informed choices in the 2027 general elections, insisting that only visionary and credible leadership can deliver the country from its current challenges.
