Nigeria @ 65: Nigerian Governor Laments, “Far From the Nation of Our Dreams”
Legit.ng journalist Adekunle Dada has over 8 years of experience covering metro, government policy, and international issues
Kano State – Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf said Nigeria, at 65 years of independence, is still far from the nation of the people’s dreams.
Governor Yusuf called on Nigerians not to lose hope despite the persistent challenges of poverty, insecurity, and mistrust.
As reported by Daily Trust, Governor Yusuf, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Sulaiman Wali, stated this on Monday, September 29, 2025, at a pre-independence public lecture held at the Coronation Hall, Kano Government House.
“Nigeria at 65 is still far from the nation of our dreams. But this is not a reason to despair; it is a call to action. Unity is not about uniformity, but about celebrating our differences while working towards a common destiny.”
The governor urged Nigerians to take ownership of nation-building by participating actively in democratic processes.

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He called on Nigerians to support security initiatives and embrace youth development programmes.
Governor Yusuf said Kano state is determined to chart a new course where its youth are seen as agents of peace, innovation, and development.
The New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP) governor said this is to ensure that the youths are not tools for violence and division.
“I stand before you today filled with pride, gratitude, and responsibility. Pride, because we are gathered to celebrate Nigeria at 65; gratitude, because it allows us to reflect on our journey; and responsibility, because as leaders and citizens, we must translate noble words into concrete actions.”
Atiku’s aide faults Tinubu’s Independence Day speech
Recall that Phrank Shaibu, Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, lambasted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Shaibu said President Tinubu's Independence Day speech is full of empty promises and harsh realities.
According to Atiku's aide, Nigerians are not clapping because of hunger, insecurity, and despair in the country.
10 takeaways from Tinubu’s 65th Independence speech
In a previous story, Legit.ng reported that in his traditional presidential address on Independence Day, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the country’s hardest economic phase is over.
The President highlights stronger reserves at $42.03bn, a reduced debt servicing ratio, and revived crude production.
Over 510,000 students benefit from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund as the government expands access to higher education and youth empowerment schemes.
Source: Legit.ng