‘Nigeria bigger than individuals’ private ambition’

Being an address presented by Governor Willie Obiano of Anambra State at the 2018 Independence anniversary 

 Ndi Anambra, ekenemunu.
Today, we celebrate our 58 years of existence as a country. 58 is a great number. It shows that we have come a long way together. We have survived long periods of doubts and uncertainties. We have danced to the edge of the cliff and danced back again. We have survived a brutal Civil War but we are still here together. Fellow Nigerians, this is not a strange story!
Every great nation goes through these cycles of doubts, mutual suspicions and even civil wars. Most countries in Europe and America passed through these rugged paths to become the economic and democratic marvels that they are today. So, fellow compatriots don’t be afraid because it is well with Nigeria!
Ndi Anambra, this Anniversary comes barely four months to the next general elections. It is therefore a very important Anniversary. It calls for a sober reflection by everyone of us but more so from our political leaders, our religious leaders, our traditional rulers, our journalists, members of the civil society, the security agencies, opinion leaders and Nigerians from all walks of life.
2019 is a watershed in our evolution as a democratic country and our political leaders must always remember that Nigeria is bigger than the private ambition of any individual no matter how highly placed. So, we must put Nigeria first! As our brothers and sisters file out for various electoral positions in the on-going party primaries across the country, they must remember that Nigeria comes first!
Brothers and sisters, in Anambra State, we have established a template for democratic excellence. We have harnessed the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) into a model democratic platform.
We have developed a robust democratic culture that is deeply rooted in brotherhood and progress. So, as we prepare for our coming party primaries, we must not lose sight of the fact that it is a family affair.
Of course we shall have our usual differences. That is the sole of every democratic culture. But we must not let our individual differences and political disagreements overrun the great promise of our party. Umunnem, we shall settle all our differences in brotherhood and love! That has always been our strength!
Fellow Nigerians, as the 2019 general elections draw closer, we must all seek the face of God in prayers. We must ask God to guide our nation on the right path and to give our leaders the wisdom to make the right decisions that will be in the best interests of Nigeria.
Fellow Nigerians, our future is in our own hands. At 58, Nigeria is old and wise enough to handle all our internal differences and family disagreements in a manner that will not threaten our corporate existence as one united country.
Let us therefore pray that the Almighty God will heal this land and grant us the wisdom to manage our affairs to His Glory and to the peace and contentment of mankind.
I wish you all a Happy Independent Anniversary celebration!
  Dalunu!
  Willie Obiano
Governor