Independence Day Message: Hope Renewed, Hope Alive | Hon Bimbo Kolade
Fellow Nigerians,
As we celebrate the 66th anniversary of our nation’s independence, I join millions of Nigerians at home and abroad in thanking God for the gift of Nigeria and for the resilience, courage and enduring spirit of our people.
Independence Day is more than a celebration of our past. It is also a moment to reflect on the Nigeria we are building and the Nigeria we desire to leave for generations yet unborn.
For me, it is “Hope Renewed, Hope Alive,” as I believe this captures the spirit of our national journey.
Despite the difficulties and sacrifices of recent years, there are encouraging signs that Nigeria is steadily moving towards greater economic stability and renewed opportunities.
Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government has undertaken significant economic reforms aimed at repositioning the Nigerian economy. Recent official data show continued economic growth, with real GDP growing by 4.43% in the second quarter of 2026, alongside growth in agriculture, manufacturing, oil and gas, and services.
We have also witnessed continuing investments in roads, railways, power, agriculture, housing, education, and healthcare. The administration has expanded access to tertiary education through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, supported agricultural production, advanced housing programmes, and continued efforts to strengthen the power and transport sectors.
I recognise, however, that statistics and infrastructure alone do not tell the complete story. Many Nigerian families and businesses are still dealing with the pressures of everyday life. The real measure of progress is ultimately how these reforms translate into better livelihoods, affordable food, decent jobs, reliable electricity, improved security, and greater opportunities for our young people.
That is why I remain hopeful.
I believe the foundation being laid today can yield greater dividends tomorrow. The ongoing reforms, investments, and economic restructuring must continue to translate into tangible benefits for ordinary Nigerians. The journey is not yet complete, but the direction of travel gives us reason to believe that more dividends of democracy and development are on the way.
As we celebrate our independence, let’s put our faith in Nigeria. Let us reject despair and cynicism. Let us continue to work for a country where our diversity becomes our strength, where every citizen has an opportunity to prosper, and where the promise of Nigeria becomes a reality for our children.
I salute our Armed Forces, security agencies, farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, professionals, students, young people, and every Nigerian whose daily contribution keeps our nation moving forward.
Nigeria belongs to all of us.
On this Independence Day, my message is simple:
Hope is renewed.
Hope is alive.
Our collective responsibility is to keep building a better Nigeria.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Hon. Bimbo Kolade, FNIOB; Federal Commissioner, RMAFC and President, Nigerian Institute of Building, NIOB.
