Kaduna state governor, Senator Uba Sani, has blamed the nation’s economic problems on unfair global economic systems and years of mismanagement.
In an address on Wednesday during celebrations marking the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, Sani noted that, this year’s anniversary comes at a time of severe economic hardship in many households.
“Our nation is grappling with economic difficulties due to the unfair global economic system and years of mismanagement,” he said.
He said, for the past 64 years, the country has witnessed its “highs and lows, ups and downs” and has continued to weather the storms.
He said despite the current challenges, there is every reason to celebrate the achievements so far recorded in the past 64 years.
He asked Nigerians to unite and work together to create a nation where every citizen can thrive and realise their full potential.
“Today reminds us not only of our sovereignty but the courage and resilience that defines us as a people,” the governor said.
According to him, Independence Day is not just the celebration of freedom that had been achieved but the collective effort that has brought the country thus far.
The governor praised the struggles and sacrifices of the nation’s founding fathers and the unwavering spirit of Nigerians over the years.
“We recognise that nation-building is a marathon, not a sprint – a journey of incremental progress, not a single achievement.
“Even where the road is rough, we trudge on; spurred by the fact that independence is neither an end in itself nor is it a destination. It is a continuous process of building, striving, and overcoming.
“Sixty-four years on, there have been highs and lows, ups and downs on the journey, but we are still striving. And there is cause for cheer.
“We have enjoyed uninterrupted democratic governance for 24 years. Economically, Nigeria has experienced economic growth, becoming Africa’s largest economy.
“However, this anniversary comes at a time of severe economic stress in many households.
“Our nation is grappling with economic difficulties due to the unfair global economic system and years of mismanagement,” the governor said.
Sani said the federal and state governments have stepped up short, medium, and long-term measures to mitigate the hardships facing Nigerians.
He said President Bola Tinubu has taken bold and painful economic measures to reinvent the economy and stabilise the country.
He added that, with patience and support, the economy would bounce back, and the socio-economic conditions of the people would improve.
“The Kaduna State Government, which I lead by the grace of God, has been providing succour to the poor, vulnerable, and underserved persons in the state.
“We are investing heavily in agriculture, education, health, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“Transformation of the rural economy is on course as many road projects have been completed, and many others are ongoing across the state,” the governor said.