May God help us all happy 53 years old is not jokeooooooo

Brimmie: If After Ur 6 Years In Aso-Rock, And Me N Ma Household Still Cnt Feel "Fresh Air" Or See "The Transformation", Then Be Ready To Die Like Samuel Doe Of Liberia!


Ur Blokos Is Goin To Be Tied To Haojue Suzuki And Drive Thru Badagry Express Road!

God Bless Me N Ma Family!

That's a direct threat to the President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!
In a civilised nation, you'll be taken into custody and interrogated!




Mr President surely has made a point and has worked his way back into the hearts of many Nigerians... Mine too!
I hope for the sake of the Children I intend to bring into this world that we survive this evil period! I pray that Peace and Unity will reign in Nigeria!

I don't think living Peacefully with Muslims is impossible! Peaceful co-existence is very achievable but first we must start to see ourselves as Nigerians, as human beings, as God's creation! My experience on Nairaland has taught me that even if Nigeria is divided (North/South), our problems will remain! (You need to see the way the Igbos and Yorubas fight themselves on Nairaland. It goes to prove that if its not Religious violence, it will be Ethnic Violence...

Unless you want Nigeria divide into 36 countries, stand up for a United Nigeria!

I also believe that God hears and answers prayers, he must have heard enough! All that's left now if for you and I to take action in our every day lives and do what is right and good for the greatest number!

Hadeyeancah:

This is NIGERIA report card at 53 years.


Kidnapping..............A1

Electricity.... .........E8

Education...... .......E8

Prostitution... .......A1

Good Road........... ..D7

Banking Sector.....E8

Bombing........ .. .......A1

Creativity..... .........D7

Telecommunication.......E8

Security....... ............F9

Corruption..... .........A1

Cash Embezzlement.....A1

Leadership..............F9

Job opportunity.... ...F9

that's the true state of the Nation.
Kudos

I cant read all this, its too long

l am afraid. The President is constituting a committee for National dialogue, and the president of the Senate also made mention of it on resumption in the face of these G5 or 8 governors palaver. This is serious O. Odikwa very risky and all the post I've read so far Nobody seems to be talking about it. Mr President, I love and respect you so much and i know these abokis have pushed us to the wall so much but be careful cos this is a recipe for division.

ashieduplus: Talk is cheap...

God bless Mr President..
But we r votin him out come 2015

Who voted him in d first place?? He will still vote for himself nd still b d clueless presido again

God bless Nigeria, and my president. I believe in your transformation agenda.

Nothing spectacular except to enrich another folks all in the name of committee on fruitless conference again!!!

Hadeyeancah:

This is NIGERIA report card at 53 years.


Kidnapping..............A1

Electricity.... .........E8

Education...... .......E8

Prostitution... .......A1

Good Road........... ..D7

Banking Sector.....E8

Bombing........ .. .......A1

Creativity..... .........D7

Telecommunication.......E8

Security....... ............F9

Corruption..... .........A1

Cash Embezzlement.....A1

Leadership..............F9

Job opportunity.... ...F9

...true talk.Infact if there is any grading like G10,then we deserve it in the areas below:
Electricity
Employment

IS IT ONLY ME, OR DID YOU GUYS NOTICE THIS.....

11. In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!

is there no traditional religion in Nigeria again where is PAGAN9JA AND OKIJAJUJU

I was almost fooled by GEJ speech. I realized it was just the same clueless GEJ talking when he mentioned "Advisory Comittee". I believe in Nigeria but not in its leaders....Happy independence and God bless Nigeria.

Brimmie: If After Ur 6 Years In Aso-Rock, And Me N Ma Household Still Cnt Feel "Fresh Air" Or See "The Transformation", Then Be Ready To Die Like Samuel Doe Of Liberia!


Ur Blokos Is Goin To Be Tied To Haojue Suzuki And Drive Thru Badagry Express Road!

God Bless Me N Ma Family!

who b dis

nice articulate speech...

but all politicians are hypocrites *Tupac*

They say one thing and clearly do the other..

eluquenson: Story telling, edited script.
We don't need to be told, we all know, but stop corruption, attend to the call of the masses, stop eating N1m per meal, stop wasting the country resources. We pay tax & yet no development.
Let's be wise

please verify ur facts well , 1m per meal...Is he a blue whale..?..dat blunder alone az written off every jargon u posted..Naija go... beta..pack if u don tire..

Hadeyeancah:

This is NIGERIA report card at 53 years.


Kidnapping..............A1

Electricity.... .........E8

Education...... .......E8

Prostitution... .......A1

Good Road........... ..D7

Banking Sector.....E8

Bombing........ .. .......A1

Creativity..... .........D7

Telecommunication.......E8

Security....... ............F9

Corruption..... .........A1

Cash Embezzlement.....A1

Leadership..............F9

Job opportunity.... ...F9

Great results at least @Nigeria pass 5 subjects and its five credits u fit use enter university

bory09: happy independence to us all. Is there where food is shared freely in celebration of independence in lagos

yes o...@yaba left relief camp...
White Rice n Green Stew..com n chop rice n run mad..God bless u as u come amen..

thundey95:

Great results at least @Nigeria pass 5 subjects and its five credits u fit use enter university

Lwkmd

Brimmie: If After Ur 6 Years In Aso-Rock, And Me N Ma Household Still Cnt Feel "Fresh Air" Or See "The Transformation", Then Be Ready To Die Like Samuel Doe Of Liberia!


Ur Blokos Is Goin To Be Tied To Haojue Suzuki And Drive Thru Badagry Express Road!

God Bless Me N Ma Family!

u most be naïve.don't work,be expecting fresh air for your hungry family.

Brimmie: If After Ur 6 Years In Aso-Rock, And Me N Ma Household Still Cnt Feel "Fresh Air" Or See "The Transformation", Then Be Ready To Die Like Samuel Doe Of Liberia!


Ur Blokos Is Goin To Be Tied To Haojue Suzuki And Drive Thru Badagry Express Road!

God Bless Me N Ma Family!

You are CURSED!! And congratulations for dragging your Family into it, sit there in your miserable corner and wait for GEJ to fix your misery out of almost 200 million Nigerians..while your mates are striving to make themselves and their Lives better, Don't move o! Just SIT TIGHT..GEJ dey come! Happy Birthday Nigeria..we shall Overcome, whether together or seperately!

Cindino20: AN advisory committee....nt again...Mr president wif all due respect u re clueless

Presido, why is it that everything u want to do need advisory committee and these people will be paid from the depleted treasury. U cannot dictate, command, envision, fix any issue without wasting resources.
Sir, I suggest u invite pry school chilren for essay competition on Nigeria they will do better than you without Abati and ur committee.
Who are ur compatriots? God will bless d innocent Nigerians u have denied food education, job, peace, joy, happiness.
God wil punish the corrupt who have sold gernerations unborn.
May God spare ur life for another 53yrs so that u wl witness d shame of ur present deeds.

Same 'ol shii we used to hearing. If u cant fix it, let someone else do.

This is NIGERIA report card at 53 years.


Kidnapping..............A1

Electricity.... .........E8

Education...... .......E8

Prostitution... .......A1

Good Road........... ..D7

Banking Sector.....E8

Bombing........ .. .......A1

Creativity..... .........D7

Telecommunication.......E8

Security....... ............F9

Corruption..... .........A1

Cash Embezzlement.....A1

Leadership..............F9

Job opportunity.... ...F9


Perfect result... After 53yrs this is all you could bring home from school...

This is the best speech Nigerians have ever been given by any president as far as I'm concerned. I want to believe that this came about because seriousnes is beginning to crop up amidst our political leadership and I'm praying that this is so also. I see a lot of good intentions in the speech and as a good Christian I want believe that when you want to do something positive you begin by speaking the word to begin it for you after all everything we know and see were created with the Word. So President Jonathan I hope that you are doing just that because I see seriousness in this speech and even though before now "I must confess I wasn't one of your fans" I want to believe in you from hence forth and believe in Nigeria even though in Nigeria I never doubted. For those of us who never see anything good in Nigeria I think we should begin to believe in Her because if we do not believe in something we can never see that thing come to fruition.
As for me "I speak forth into you Nigeria and say you have seen the least you ever will from hence forth you will increase. I will eat of the abundance that is in you my children will see good in you and eat of the benefit. People of other nations will call me blessed because I was born in you. What God has deposited in you for your benefit will never cause you downfall, your natural resources will not be your Archilles heels be it crude oil, gold, or your people in Jesus name I have spoken" amen.

tears rolling down my eyes.from his eyes I see helpless struggle to rescue but numerous unsurmountable obstacles abound. our constitution is a big load.ministers are instruments of goal achievement but all were planted there by law cos all states must be represented. can he vouch for their competent and allegiance. how long is he going to change them to get goal getters while balancing state nomination. some were even nominated by antagonistic governors who may use these ministers to discredit the president by poor performance. constant changes delays policy formulation, implementation and delivery. in the end the president takes the blame. to me the law should be amended to give the head of state power to go all out to fish out best hands to work with irrespective of their ethnic, religious or political affiliation as long as results are seen on ground.
TO ME JONATHAN IS TRYING WELLA considering the environment he is operating. u can only reason otherwise only if ure not informed or u ve natural hatred for MR JONA. he has my vote until a better and convincing alternative emerge which I doubt .

Hadeyeancah:

This is NIGERIA report card at 53 years.


Kidnapping..............A1

Electricity.... .........E8

Education...... .......E8

Prostitution... .......A1

Good Road........... ..D7

Banking Sector.....E8

Bombing........ .. .......A1

Creativity..... .........D7

Telecommunication.......E8

Security....... ............F9

Corruption..... .........A1

Cash Embezzlement.....A1

Leadership..............F9

Job opportunity.... ...F9

I would like to see the marking guide you used in grading this govt?

Yar' adua, OBJ, Abacha, USA? Pls specify

dino2006: Same 'ol shii we used to hearing. If u cant fix it, let someone else do.

who will? give us the names. im waiting

uchlukez: FELLOW NIGERIANS,

1. Today marks 53 years of our Independence as a nation. First and foremost, I would like to say congratulations to us all. Through thick and thin, we have built this country together. Through triumphs and trials, we have developed a Nigerian identity in our own way.

2. In truth, Nigeria is still a work in progress and we are challenged everyday to keep building in spite of the various obstacles that we face. Our strength has been in our diversity. If we look back over the years, we can say confidently that there is every reason to celebrate.

3. Today's Independence anniversary is unique because it is the last before we mark our centenary. On January 1, 2014, Nigeria will be 100 years old as a country, following the amalgamation of the Protectorates of Southern and Northern Nigeria in 1914.

4. Beloved country men and women, traditionally, the Presidential address on this symbolic day has served two purposes. It has, quite rightly, been used to remind all Nigerians about our heritage. It has also allowed my predecessors and I to comment on our stewardship to the nation and make political capital out of a state occasion.

5. But this year, I will not. Because, today of all days, we should not be scoring political points. On the contrary, in this last year of the first century of our Union, we should be addressing our future as a Nation and a people!

6. I admit that these may not be the best of times for our nation. Our people are divided in many ways – ethnically, religiously, politically, and materially. I cannot hide from this reality. I cannot hide from my own responsibilities.

7. As we prepare to mark the centenary, therefore, today offers us an opportunity to reflect on our long journey to nationhood and the progress we have made so far. Whatever the challenges that we may face, we have every reason to be proud of our national accomplishments; we have every reason to remain proud and optimistic. Our collective national journey has witnessed great watersheds, thanks to our spirit of endurance, perseverance and sacrifice. Getting the rest of the job done with determination and courage is just a matter of time. We are Nigerians, a nation of talented people, endowed with resources, potentials, and Divine Grace.

8. In our journey to greatness as a nation, we have built an economy that is robust and erected enduring infrastructure and institutions of democracy. Our social system is now more inclusive, open and compassionate. We are waging a steady battle against poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Our sense of community, solidarity and shared expectation is strong and capable of withstanding the present social, economic and political challenges that still confront us.

9. In saying this, I am reminded of the comments I made a week ago to a cross-section of Nigerians in New York during the 68th United Nations General Assembly. I declare now as I declared then: we have a duty as Nigerians, whatever may be our differences or prejudices, to always put Nigeria first.

10. Our politics should be an art of patriotic labour and selfless service to the community, particularly by the political elite who are placed in positions of great trust and responsibility. Politics has its own high moral principles which abhor distracting and divisive rhetoric. As men and women in leadership, we must continually focus on service, duty, responsibility, and the next generation. Those who are elected to govern at all levels must focus on improving the lives of our people, not selfish ambition.

11. In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!

12. My clarion call therefore, on this special day, is that we should begin to align our political utterances and conduct solely to the nobler passions that unite our people. Politicians do not make a nation; ordinary folks do.

13. Our nation is made great by the big and small efforts of regular citizens. These are the teachers and men and women in academics who inculcate the knowledge and wisdom that transform into tomorrow’s wealth; the traders and market women who tend to our everyday needs; the farmers whose labour feeds the nation; the artisans whose work ensures that our homesteads are well maintained; the doctors, pharmacists, nurses, accountants, bankers, engineers, and other professionals who add value to our lives; the sportsmen and women and those in the creative industry who bring honour and fame to our nation;

14. And the men and women of our armed forces and security services who toil day and night so that you and I may live in a safe and secure nation.

15. It is the individual and collective heroism of these regular folks that has placed our nation on the path of greatness. Politics and politicians sometimes distract the people and create unnecessary tension.

16. But our independence celebration is about the same people, the people of Nigeria: their industry, sense of mission and purpose, and their patience and perseverance as we navigate historical turns in our march towards prosperity and self-sufficiency. Today, I salute the people of Nigeria.

17. My Compatriots, history has proven that nations take time to evolve. We should rejoice in our democracy because it enables us to be united by our differences, not destroyed by them. And, there is no more crucial time for us to be united than now.

18. The threats we face may be real and immediate. But we are not alone in this regard. It is a difficult season for much of the world: industrialized or developing; rich or poor. What matters are the lessons we learn, the wisdom we demonstrate, and the victory we snatch from the jaws of likely defeat.

19. And I tell you, more than anything else, there are lessons to learn, and every cause to be thankful. If I must cite one example, take Syria. As we all pray and work for a return to normalcy in Syria, it would be helpful for us to reflect on the fact that Syria was once a peaceful, thriving, multi-cultural nation which played host to a mosaic of religions and ethnicities.

20. But that once idyllic nation has today become a theatre of human misery of unimaginable proportions as a result of the activities of extremist forces.

21. Fellow Nigerians, the spectre of extremism haunts every democracy in every corner of the globe. While we celebrate our independence and good fortune, our hearts must grieve for those who have lost loved ones in numerous terrorist activities around the world.

22. Back home, I admit being overtaken by deep feelings of grief, whenever news reached me of the appalling atrocities in some of our States, especially the North Eastern part of our country. Just two days ago, terrorist elements attacked the College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State killing a number of innocent students of the institution and other residents in cold blood, most of them in their sleep. This act of barbarism is a demonstration of the extent to which evil forces will go to destabilize our nation. But I assure you, they will not succeed.

23. My heart goes out to the families of all those who have fallen victim of these dastardly acts. Our Administration will not rest until every Nigerian is free from the oppression of terrorism. I reassure you that no cost will be spared, no idea will be ignored, and no resource will be left untapped in the quest to enable our people live without fear.

24. On this day, I implore every Nigerian – wherever you are, whatever language you speak, whatever your religious persuasion, whichever Political Party you support -: let us join together to fight this evil of extremism.

25. On behalf of us all, I commend our Armed Forces and security agencies for their dedication and bravery in the face of grave danger, and in the name of our collective liberty.

26. Fellow Nigerians, this is a time to pull together behind the national cause: the cause of our freedom, and our future. We must rekindle the spirit of Nigeria, to ensure that every democrat and every lover of peace in this great nation continues to live in a free, peaceful, and secure Nigeria.

27. On my part, I re-dedicate myself completely to the service of this great country. I was elected President to continue the process of building a prosperous nation where hopes, dreams and aspirations would be fulfilled. Nigerians, home and abroad, want a country they can be proud to call their own. I am pleased to affirm that, no matter the challenges we face, we are on the right path to greatness. Our Transformation Agenda, which is part of the overall vision of making Nigeria a land of greatness, has been delivering positive and encouraging results.

28. On May 29th this year, I presented to the nation a mid-term report of my Administration’s Transformation Agenda. This was conceived as an integrated policy aimed at reconstructing not only institutional governance for effective and efficient service delivery, but also a re-orientation of national norms and values. The document captured the essence of our agenda in relation to core objectives and achievements.

29. I have been consistently mindful of the weight of public expectation to find solutions to the challenges that confront us because the mandate we have is a free and sacred one. In all that I have done, I have been guided by this sacred obligation, to work hard for the good of Nigeria and to make life better for Nigerians. I want to assure everyone that Nigeria, under my leadership, will not fail.

30. Exactly 53 years ago today, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa urged us to ‘move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage’. I am sure that there have been times when every one of us must have questioned how closely we have followed that injunction.

31. But again, I can reassure you that Nigeria’s place on the world stage today is strong and safe, and it is certainly a place of dignity and respect. We must continue to build on this by remaining a nation and a people committed to ideals, the noblest humanitarian values, and the rule of law.

32. Our Constitution is anchored ultimately on the idea of freedom and fundamental rights: freedom of expression; freedom from discrimination; freedom to vote and be voted for, and the right to human dignity. These are the core values of a true democracy. These are the values of which we must never lose sight.

33. In my address to the UN General Assembly last week, I emphasized the crucial role of democratization in improving the fortunes not just of this country, but of our entire continent. Democratic values encourage diversity. They encourage discourse. They encourage disagreement. This is the joy of democracy.

34. It enables us to have an opinion. And ultimately, the ballot box gives us all the opportunity to instigate change. When democracy works, it does not destroy a nation. It unites and defines it.

35. Fellow Nigerians, our Administration has taken cognizance of suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country. I am an advocate of dialogue. When there are issues that stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.

36. In demonstration of my avowed belief in the positive power of dialogue in charting the way forward, I have decided to set up an Advisory Committee whose mandate is to establish the modalities for a National Dialogue or Conference. The Committee will also design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process.

37. The Committee will be chaired by Dr. Femi Okurounmu while Dr. Akilu Indabawa will serve as the Secretary. The full membership of the Committee will be announced shortly.

38. I expect the Report to be ready in one month, following which the nation will be briefed on the nomenclature, structure and modalities of the Dialogue.

39. Fellow Nigerians, the past 53 years have seen Nigeria evolve on an epic scale. Our progress since independence has not always been smooth. This is, after all, our Fourth Republic; but despite all its flaws, it has lasted longer than all the previous three put together. That is progress and it proves that, our differences – real and imagined - notwithstanding, we are, in every sense, a united nation.

40. This is no time for the harmful clutches of parochial sentiments and the politics of bitterness, impunity, arrogance and unhelpful indiscipline. We must stand as one, with absolute commitment and resolve to resist any force that threatens us and the sanctity of our union.

41. I want to thank all our country men and women who have stood by this Administration in the midst of mounting challenges and enormous expectations.

42. I recognize that it is not easy to keep believing in the possibilities of our greatness when our faith is constantly challenged. But let me assure you that, if we do not despair, we shall reap the reward of our labour in due season.

43. It is my prayer that, another 53 years from now, our children and grand-children will look back on our effort and be thankful that we kept the faith.

44. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

45. I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.

46. I thank you.

May God His exellency, President Jonathan for this well articulated and all encompassing speech on our 53rd Independent day. Nigeria is getting stronger despite all the disractions. Live longer Nija.

traffickz: The President's Speech is balance and very Articulate!

I don't need to be told that the Opposition will most definitely criticise him, but that will not bring progress in anyway and will not make them the president of the Federal Republic on the 53rd Independence Anniversary.

I cherish His Boldness. In the Address.

It seem to me you are yet to know that action speaks louder than words! There's a fine line between being bold on paper and being bold in your actions!

Best Speech ever written by any Nigerian President. I nearly thought it was Obama's speech.

This speech has changed my perception and given me a reason to become more detribalized.

Regarding the National Dialogue; it is high time we disussed amongst other things;

1 FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE OF STATES
2. STATE POLICE
3. SOCIAL WELFARE SCHEME
4. BIOMETRY
5. STATE OF BIRTH/STATE OF ORIGIN PARADOX
6. ABROGATION OF QUOTA SYSTEM
7. NIGER DELTA IDENTITY AND BIAFRA COMPENSATION AGAINST THE 20 POUNDS INSULT AND IMPOVERISHMENT.

tayotemowo: This is the best speech Nigerians have ever been given by any president as far as I'm concerned. I want to believe that this came about because seriousnes is beginning to crop up amidst our political leadership and I'm praying that this is so also. I see a lot of good intentions in the speech and as a good Christian I want believe that when you want to do something positive you begin by speaking the word to begin it for you after all everything we know and see were created with the Word. So President Jonathan I hope that you are doing just that because I see seriousness in this speech and even though before now "I must confess I wasn't one of your fans" I want to believe in you from hence forth and believe in Nigeria even though in Nigeria I never doubted. For those of us who never see anything good in Nigeria I think we should begin to believe in Her because if we do not believe in something we can never see that thing come to fruition.
As for me "I speak forth into you Nigeria and say you have seen the least you ever will from hence forth you will increase. I will eat of the abundance that is in you my children will see good in you and eat of the benefit. People of other nations will call me blessed because I was born in you. What God has deposited in you for your benefit will never cause you downfall, your natural resources will not be your Archilles heels be it crude oil, gold, or your people in Jesus name I have spoken" amen.

TRUE! The speech is awesome. The best so far, in the history of this fertile nation. God bless Nigeria. God bless the FIRST FAMILY. God bless our gallant President. We are crop of SUCCESS

Cindino20: AN advisory committee....nt again...Mr president wif all due respect u re clueless

Pls 'the clue one', what would you have done as the president? Create a sovereign national conference without consulting (due process)?

The committee are going to recommend the terms for the conference as well as other things, if they don't do a good job the conference wouldn't yield results.

Things as important as this have to go through process, the committee will meet different people /groups for suggestions so the conference meets every legal/moral requirements.


I support the president on this! A sovereign national conference isn't child's play, a committee needs to bring out the blue print for the conference. From what I remember, the Senate is against the national conference, so the committee needs to get their views/fears.

uchlukez: FELLOW NIGERIANS,

1. Today marks 53 years of our Independence as a nation. First and foremost, I would like to say congratulations to us all. Through thick and thin, we have built this country together. Through triumphs and trials, we have developed a Nigerian identity in our own way.

2. In truth, Nigeria is still a work in progress and we are challenged everyday to keep building in spite of the various obstacles that we face. Our strength has been in our diversity. If we look back over the years, we can say confidently that there is every reason to celebrate.

3. Today's Independence anniversary is unique because it is the last before we mark our centenary. On January 1, 2014, Nigeria will be 100 years old as a country, following the amalgamation of the Protectorates of Southern and Northern Nigeria in 1914.

4. Beloved country men and women, traditionally, the Presidential address on this symbolic day has served two purposes. It has, quite rightly, been used to remind all Nigerians about our heritage. It has also allowed my predecessors and I to comment on our stewardship to the nation and make political capital out of a state occasion.

5. But this year, I will not. Because, today of all days, we should not be scoring political points. On the contrary, in this last year of the first century of our Union, we should be addressing our future as a Nation and a people!

6. I admit that these may not be the best of times for our nation. Our people are divided in many ways – ethnically, religiously, politically, and materially. I cannot hide from this reality. I cannot hide from my own responsibilities.

7. As we prepare to mark the centenary, therefore, today offers us an opportunity to reflect on our long journey to nationhood and the progress we have made so far. Whatever the challenges that we may face, we have every reason to be proud of our national accomplishments; we have every reason to remain proud and optimistic. Our collective national journey has witnessed great watersheds, thanks to our spirit of endurance, perseverance and sacrifice. Getting the rest of the job done with determination and courage is just a matter of time. We are Nigerians, a nation of talented people, endowed with resources, potentials, and Divine Grace.

8. In our journey to greatness as a nation, we have built an economy that is robust and erected enduring infrastructure and institutions of democracy. Our social system is now more inclusive, open and compassionate. We are waging a steady battle against poverty, unemployment, and corruption. Our sense of community, solidarity and shared expectation is strong and capable of withstanding the present social, economic and political challenges that still confront us.

9. In saying this, I am reminded of the comments I made a week ago to a cross-section of Nigerians in New York during the 68th United Nations General Assembly. I declare now as I declared then: we have a duty as Nigerians, whatever may be our differences or prejudices, to always put Nigeria first.

10. Our politics should be an art of patriotic labour and selfless service to the community, particularly by the political elite who are placed in positions of great trust and responsibility. Politics has its own high moral principles which abhor distracting and divisive rhetoric. As men and women in leadership, we must continually focus on service, duty, responsibility, and the next generation. Those who are elected to govern at all levels must focus on improving the lives of our people, not selfish ambition.

11. In the words of the American theologian and author, James Freeman Clarke, ‘a politician thinks of the next election; a statesman of the next generation’. Whether we are Muslims or Christians; rich or poor; from the North or the South; East or West; regardless of our political affiliations, this is the time for every one of us to be a statesman!

12. My clarion call therefore, on this special day, is that we should begin to align our political utterances and conduct solely to the nobler passions that unite our people. Politicians do not make a nation; ordinary folks do.

13. Our nation is made great by the big and small efforts of regular citizens. These are the teachers and men and women in academics who inculcate the knowledge and wisdom that transform into tomorrow’s wealth; the traders and market women who tend to our everyday needs; the farmers whose labour feeds the nation; the artisans whose work ensures that our homesteads are well maintained; the doctors, pharmacists, nurses, accountants, bankers, engineers, and other professionals who add value to our lives; the sportsmen and women and those in the creative industry who bring honour and fame to our nation;

14. And the men and women of our armed forces and security services who toil day and night so that you and I may live in a safe and secure nation.

15. It is the individual and collective heroism of these regular folks that has placed our nation on the path of greatness. Politics and politicians sometimes distract the people and create unnecessary tension.

16. But our independence celebration is about the same people, the people of Nigeria: their industry, sense of mission and purpose, and their patience and perseverance as we navigate historical turns in our march towards prosperity and self-sufficiency. Today, I salute the people of Nigeria.

17. My Compatriots, history has proven that nations take time to evolve. We should rejoice in our democracy because it enables us to be united by our differences, not destroyed by them. And, there is no more crucial time for us to be united than now.

18. The threats we face may be real and immediate. But we are not alone in this regard. It is a difficult season for much of the world: industrialized or developing; rich or poor. What matters are the lessons we learn, the wisdom we demonstrate, and the victory we snatch from the jaws of likely defeat.

19. And I tell you, more than anything else, there are lessons to learn, and every cause to be thankful. If I must cite one example, take Syria. As we all pray and work for a return to normalcy in Syria, it would be helpful for us to reflect on the fact that Syria was once a peaceful, thriving, multi-cultural nation which played host to a mosaic of religions and ethnicities.

20. But that once idyllic nation has today become a theatre of human misery of unimaginable proportions as a result of the activities of extremist forces.

21. Fellow Nigerians, the spectre of extremism haunts every democracy in every corner of the globe. While we celebrate our independence and good fortune, our hearts must grieve for those who have lost loved ones in numerous terrorist activities around the world.

22. Back home, I admit being overtaken by deep feelings of grief, whenever news reached me of the appalling atrocities in some of our States, especially the North Eastern part of our country. Just two days ago, terrorist elements attacked the College of Agriculture in Gujba, Yobe State killing a number of innocent students of the institution and other residents in cold blood, most of them in their sleep. This act of barbarism is a demonstration of the extent to which evil forces will go to destabilize our nation. But I assure you, they will not succeed.

23. My heart goes out to the families of all those who have fallen victim of these dastardly acts. Our Administration will not rest until every Nigerian is free from the oppression of terrorism. I reassure you that no cost will be spared, no idea will be ignored, and no resource will be left untapped in the quest to enable our people live without fear.

24. On this day, I implore every Nigerian – wherever you are, whatever language you speak, whatever your religious persuasion, whichever Political Party you support -: let us join together to fight this evil of extremism.

25. On behalf of us all, I commend our Armed Forces and security agencies for their dedication and bravery in the face of grave danger, and in the name of our collective liberty.

26. Fellow Nigerians, this is a time to pull together behind the national cause: the cause of our freedom, and our future. We must rekindle the spirit of Nigeria, to ensure that every democrat and every lover of peace in this great nation continues to live in a free, peaceful, and secure Nigeria.

27. On my part, I re-dedicate myself completely to the service of this great country. I was elected President to continue the process of building a prosperous nation where hopes, dreams and aspirations would be fulfilled. Nigerians, home and abroad, want a country they can be proud to call their own. I am pleased to affirm that, no matter the challenges we face, we are on the right path to greatness. Our Transformation Agenda, which is part of the overall vision of making Nigeria a land of greatness, has been delivering positive and encouraging results.

28. On May 29th this year, I presented to the nation a mid-term report of my Administration’s Transformation Agenda. This was conceived as an integrated policy aimed at reconstructing not only institutional governance for effective and efficient service delivery, but also a re-orientation of national norms and values. The document captured the essence of our agenda in relation to core objectives and achievements.

29. I have been consistently mindful of the weight of public expectation to find solutions to the challenges that confront us because the mandate we have is a free and sacred one. In all that I have done, I have been guided by this sacred obligation, to work hard for the good of Nigeria and to make life better for Nigerians. I want to assure everyone that Nigeria, under my leadership, will not fail.

30. Exactly 53 years ago today, Prime Minister Tafawa Balewa urged us to ‘move with quiet dignity to our place on the world stage’. I am sure that there have been times when every one of us must have questioned how closely we have followed that injunction.

31. But again, I can reassure you that Nigeria’s place on the world stage today is strong and safe, and it is certainly a place of dignity and respect. We must continue to build on this by remaining a nation and a people committed to ideals, the noblest humanitarian values, and the rule of law.

32. Our Constitution is anchored ultimately on the idea of freedom and fundamental rights: freedom of expression; freedom from discrimination; freedom to vote and be voted for, and the right to human dignity. These are the core values of a true democracy. These are the values of which we must never lose sight.

33. In my address to the UN General Assembly last week, I emphasized the crucial role of democratization in improving the fortunes not just of this country, but of our entire continent. Democratic values encourage diversity. They encourage discourse. They encourage disagreement. This is the joy of democracy.

34. It enables us to have an opinion. And ultimately, the ballot box gives us all the opportunity to instigate change. When democracy works, it does not destroy a nation. It unites and defines it.

35. Fellow Nigerians, our Administration has taken cognizance of suggestions over the years by well-meaning Nigerians on the need for a National Dialogue on the future of our beloved country. I am an advocate of dialogue. When there are issues that stoke tension and bring about friction, it makes perfect sense for the interested parties to come together to discuss.

36. In demonstration of my avowed belief in the positive power of dialogue in charting the way forward, I have decided to set up an Advisory Committee whose mandate is to establish the modalities for a National Dialogue or Conference. The Committee will also design a framework and come up with recommendations as to the form, structure and mechanism of the process.

37. The Committee will be chaired by Dr. Femi Okurounmu while Dr. Akilu Indabawa will serve as the Secretary. The full membership of the Committee will be announced shortly.

38. I expect the Report to be ready in one month, following which the nation will be briefed on the nomenclature, structure and modalities of the Dialogue.

39. Fellow Nigerians, the past 53 years have seen Nigeria evolve on an epic scale. Our progress since independence has not always been smooth. This is, after all, our Fourth Republic; but despite all its flaws, it has lasted longer than all the previous three put together. That is progress and it proves that, our differences – real and imagined - notwithstanding, we are, in every sense, a united nation.

40. This is no time for the harmful clutches of parochial sentiments and the politics of bitterness, impunity, arrogance and unhelpful indiscipline. We must stand as one, with absolute commitment and resolve to resist any force that threatens us and the sanctity of our union.

41. I want to thank all our country men and women who have stood by this Administration in the midst of mounting challenges and enormous expectations.

42. I recognize that it is not easy to keep believing in the possibilities of our greatness when our faith is constantly challenged. But let me assure you that, if we do not despair, we shall reap the reward of our labour in due season.

43. It is my prayer that, another 53 years from now, our children and grand-children will look back on our effort and be thankful that we kept the faith.

44. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

45. I wish you all a very happy 53rd Independence Celebration.

46. I thank you.

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