By Segun Adewale, Bauchi
As Nigeria clocks 65 years of Independence, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman, Board of the National Credit Guarantee Company (NCGC), has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his transformative leadership, declaring that the future of the country is anchored on resilience, unity, and bold reforms.
Dogara described Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary as “a victory of courage over fear, of hope over despair, and of resilience over adversity” .
He said the celebration should not only remind Nigerians of past sacrifices but also serve as a rallying cry to collectively embrace a new era of national renewal.
The former Speaker commended President Tinubu for the audacity to pursue difficult but necessary reforms, noting that the removal of fuel subsidy, stabilization of the naira, and renewed focus on investment and enterprise are already reshaping the economic landscape.
According to him, “These are not ordinary policy adjustments. They are seismic, historic reforms that are dismantling decades of decay and inertia. Though the pain of transition is real, the reward will be even greater. Nigerians must therefore summon the patience and endurance of a people destined for greatness, because the signs of renewal are already on the horizon” .
As Chairman of the NCGC, Dogara emphasized the role of the company in amplifying the administration’s economic vision by expanding access to credit for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), empowering women and youths, and unlocking enterprise across the federation.
The former Speaker stressed that inclusive financial empowerment is the backbone of national growth and the surest path to lifting millions out of poverty.
He issued a clarion call for unity, warning that divisive politics and sectionalism only weaken the nation’s resolve.
“At 65, Nigeria cannot afford the luxury of division. We must rise above narrow interests and embrace the higher calling of patriotism. Our destiny is one, and our survival depends on unity of purpose. Security challenges, poverty, and inequality will bow only when confronted by a people united in spirit and resolve,” he said.
Dogara acknowledged the immediate hardships facing citizens but urged Nigerians to remain steadfast and hopeful.
“This is not a moment for despair. It is a time to believe again in the Nigerian dream. With visionary leadership, unbreakable patience, and the help of Almighty God, Nigeria will not only endure — she will flourish, becoming the true giant of Africa and a voice of influence in the world,” he affirmed.
The former Speaker concluded by pledging his unwavering commitment to strengthening democracy, defending national unity, and advancing reforms that deliver justice, prosperity, and dignity to every Nigerian.
