As Nigeria marked her 65th Independence Anniversary, former Enugu State Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Professor Victor Nnam, has expressed optimism about the nation’s future, insisting that the current economic hardship is temporary and that Nigeria is firmly on the path to progress and recovery.
In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, Prof. Nnam acknowledged the difficult realities many Nigerians are currently facing but urged citizens not to lose hope, stressing that the challenges will eventually give way to prosperity.
“At 65, Nigeria has come a long way. Yes, there are challenges, economic, social, and political, but there is also undeniable progress,” he said.
“The current hardship biting hard across the nation is not permanent. It is a season and like every season, it will pass.”
Prof. Nnam, a seasoned expert in land administration and geoinformatics, highlighted the resilience and potential of the Nigerian people, emphasizing that nation-building is a long-term journey that requires sacrifice, patience, and unity.
“No nation develops overnight. The progress we seek will only come through sustained efforts, reforms, and the collective will to do things differently. We must remain united, focused, and optimistic,” he noted.
He also commended Nigerians for their enduring spirit and urged both leaders and citizens to work together to build a society rooted in justice, equity, and opportunity for all.
“We must continue to hold our leaders accountable, but also play our part as responsible citizens. This is the time to deepen our commitment to national values and support initiatives that can transform our economy and institutions,” Prof. Nnam added.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since independence in 1960, Prof. Nnam called for renewed patriotism and a shift from the politics of division to the politics of development.
“As we mark 65 years as an independent nation, let us choose unity over division, progress over stagnation and hope over despair,” he stated.
