By Mercy Akuba
BENIN CITY — As Nigeria marks its Independence Day, the Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom and Chief Executive Officer of Ologbo Hospital Limited, High Chief Johnson Atshelege, has celebrated the resilience of Nigerians, particularly youths and women, while reaffirming his faith in democracy and national unity.
Atshelege, in his Independence Day message, congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, describing the nation’s journey since independence as a reflection of the courage, resilience and determination of its people.
He said despite the country’s economic and social challenges, Nigerians had continued to work, innovate, create businesses and contribute to national development.
According to him, Independence Day should go beyond celebration and serve as a reminder of the collective responsibility to build a peaceful, prosperous and democratic Nigeria.
“Independence Day is not merely a celebration of our history; it is a reminder of the enormous responsibility we all share in building the Nigeria we desire.
“Over the years, Nigerians have demonstrated an uncommon capacity to survive challenges, rebuild and keep faith with the promise of a better nation.”
The Ologbo Hospital boss particularly commended Nigerian youths for their creativity, enterprise and determination, noting their growing contributions to technology, agriculture, entertainment, sports, entrepreneurship, education, healthcare and the creative industry.
He urged government and other stakeholders to invest more in education, skills acquisition, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities, stressing that youth empowerment was critical to Nigeria’s future.
“The Nigerian youth is not a liability. Our youths are an enormous national resource,” he said.
Atshelege also paid tribute to Nigerian women for their contributions to families, businesses, professional fields, agriculture, healthcare, education and public service.
He called for greater support for women-owned businesses, vocational training, access to finance, education and leadership opportunities.
“Our women have always been pillars of our communities. We must therefore continue to create opportunities for women to thrive. When a woman is empowered, a family is strengthened; when women are economically independent, communities become stronger.”
On democracy, the business leader reaffirmed his belief in the democratic process as an important pathway for national development.
He urged Nigerians to protect democratic institutions, respect the rule of law and participate peacefully in the political process.
He stressed that democracy should extend beyond elections to include accountability, justice, inclusion, responsible leadership and respect for citizens’ rights.
“Democracy is a process, and like every process, it requires patience, participation, accountability and constant improvement. We must all play our part in strengthening the institutions that sustain it.”
Atshelege also called for greater national unity, urging Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious, political and regional differences.
He said Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a source of division.
“Whatever our differences, we share one country and one future. The Nigeria of tomorrow will be built by all of us.
“We must learn to disagree without hatred, compete without violence and pursue our interests without destroying the collective good.”
The Iyatsere of Warri Kingdom further urged private-sector leaders and successful Nigerians to complement government efforts through investment in healthcare, education, human capital development, job creation and community development.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria could overcome its challenges if citizens and leaders remained committed to peace, justice, hard work and responsible leadership.
Atshelege urged Nigerians to use the Independence anniversary to renew their commitment to building a country where young people can realise their dreams, women can thrive, businesses can grow and vulnerable citizens are protected.
“Nigeria may have challenges, but Nigeria also has enormous possibilities. I believe in the Nigerian people, I believe in our resilience, and I believe that with unity, responsible leadership and collective commitment, our nation can achieve greater heights.”
He wished Nigerians a peaceful Independence Day celebration and urged citizens to continue contributing to the development of a prosperous, peaceful and united Nigeria.