Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers and the men and women who died in service of the country, as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio recalled the day the national flag was first raised 66 years ago.

He said it carried the hopes of millions of Nigerians for freedom, the dignity of self-government and the belief that they could shape their own destiny. That flag, he noted, still flies, and its promise still calls the country forward.

He said Nigerians owe a debt to the founding fathers and the generations whose courage, labour and sacrifice made the anniversary possible. According to him, they handed the country a nation to cherish and a future to build, and he prayed that Nigerians would prove worthy of their faith and leave their children a nation greater than the one entrusted to the present generation.

Akpabio also saluted the Armed Forces and other security agencies, especially those who lost their lives in the line of duty. He said the country remembers their families with gratitude and honour, adding that the sacrifice of fallen personnel gives solemn meaning to the freedom and unity Nigerians celebrate.

Reflecting on the country’s journey, the Senate President said the past 66 years had been marked by triumphs and trials, seasons of confidence and moments of uncertainty. He commended Nigerians for remaining resilient through it all, describing the nation’s strength as that of a people whose hopes have survived every storm.

The former Akwa Ibom governor also urged citizens to strengthen national unity, insisting that Nigeria’s diversity should remain a source of strength. He said that across languages, cultures and faiths, Nigerians belong to one national family, and that the peace preserved together is the foundation of the future the country seeks.

On the role of the legislature, Akpabio said the National Assembly would continue to support efforts by President Bola Tinubu to strengthen the country and improve the lives of Nigerians. He said the anniversary renews the shared resolve to serve the nation with integrity, compassion and devotion, and called on Nigerians to celebrate with grateful hearts and extend hands of friendship to one another.

Describing independence as an inheritance renewed by every generation, Akpabio said the past gives the nation perspective, the present gives it responsibility and the future gives it purpose.