A goodwill message by Hon. Abass Adigun Agboworin, to commemorate with Nigerians on her 59th independence anniversary.

It is an honour for me to extend my warmest greetings to all my constituents in Ibadan Southeast/Northeast Federal Constituency and Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the auspicious occasion of our 59th independence anniversary. Today, marks the end of the prolonged colonial era and the beginning of a new nation, governed by the will and passion of its own people. Certainly, irrespective of the challenges we are facing as a nation, today is a day of joy for us.

But on this celebration of  independence, we cannot but feel the pain in our hearts of innocent Nigerians who have lost their lives to violent uprising in parts of the country, vibrant and energetic youths who have been home due to the xenophobic and racial discrimination in South Africa, unemployed graduates, sick nursing mothers and children in hospitals, our brothers, fathers, uncles, who have lost their lives while serving the nation; even as we strive daily fervently for a better Nigeria, we can’t but be reminded of you.

I am particularly elated that despite today's challenges that this independence day celebration will provide a wonderful opportunity for us to come together once more irrespective of our religion, ethnic and political affiliation to reflect on the true state of our dear country in an attempt to revisit the brave effort of those who fought for our freedom and rights that characterises the nation today.

Today, 59 years after we achieved independence, if we look at our subsequent journey, we would find that our country has seen major changes and challenges. In spite of all, we have drawn strength in our diversity. Considering our multiethnic diversity, culture, religious belief, we remain one nation bound in freedom as we face these challenges.

Today,  we remember the families of our heroes past who bears the agonizing reality of moving forward with their lives while keeping the memories of our fallen heroes alive. Also, noteworthy is the resolute nature of  Nigerians (both young and old) in the political affairs of the country who work tirelessly for fairness and equality.

I must commend the contributions of the citizens who are now more enlightened and demand more from their representatives, and accordingly more from their politicians, governors and federal government. Even though, we may not always agree on issues, but for the sake of  the country’s emerging and nascent democracy we always work together to harmonize our views for a better Nigeria where we can all express our opinion freely. This is the essence of the independence that we celebrate  yearly.

I solemnly acknowledge the need for us as representatives of the people to make sacrifices in the interest of the nation. Nation building is not limited to government alone; every citizen has a role to play by complementing government's efforts and keeping vigilant at all times against dangers posed by those who have continued to undermine our democracy and peaceful coexistence. 

I remain upbeat about the Nigeria project, my representation of Ibadan Southeast/Northeast federal constituency and also as the Vice Chairman House Committe on Navy has afforded me a rare opportunity to meet with security agencies to garner their suggestions and contributions to nation building.
 I want to felicitate His Excellencies, Engr Seyi Mankind and Engr Rauf Olaniyan for witnessing today's independence anniversary as the executive governor and deputy in our darling state while I celebrate all other members of the cabinet, the advisory council, the state working committee of the PDP in the state and at the federal level and other colleagues of mine in the 9th Assembly with special regard for the speaker of the house, other principal officers and my amiable minority leader of the PDP caucus in the house.

As we reflect and celebrate our 59th independence anniversary, we must remember to keep hope alive by dedication to service, courage to uplift the nation at all times and the supreme sacrifices for our common prosperity.

May God bless Nigeria!

Long Live Oyo State!

Long Live Federal Republic of Nigeria!