The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has said there will be heavy security presence in the state as Nigeria marks her 64th anniversary to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Governor Makinde stated this on Tuesday, in his Independence Day message. He acknowledged the hardship in the country.
Makinde assured Oyo residents that his administration would continue to work towards addressing their challenges.
“We have walked, crawled, run, stumbled, and risen again. We have experienced moments of pride and moments of reflection. But above all, we have demonstrated unwavering resilience.
“They say the darkest hour comes just before the dawn. As we face these cloudy economic times, we must remember our resilient spirit. Rest assured, the sun will rise.
“Now is not the time to emphasize what divides us. Rather, we must hold fast to the things that unite us—our shared identity, our culture, and our history. We must always remember who our real enemies are, so we do not turn against our friends,” Makinde said.
The Governor of Oyo State called on Nigerians not to dwell on the difficulties of the present. He promised that the future would be better than the past.
“We will as a government continue to give strength to democratic institutions because we believe this is one of the best ways to build stronger states and nations.
“I also want to take this opportunity to reassure you that the security of our people remains a top priority. During your celebrations, you may notice an increased security presence. Do not be alarmed—they are there to ensure your safety and guarantee a peaceful celebration.
“So, as we celebrate Nigeria at 64, let us not dwell on the difficulties of the present. Instead, let us use this period to reflect on what we can do different, so that the future of our nation will be better than the past. Let us focus on the real hope that lies ahead,” Makinde added.