Chief Sir Tony Okocha, DSSRS, who is the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Rivers State and Rivers Representative on the board of the NDDC celebrates President Tinubu, Rivers State and Nigerians on the occasion of the 65th Independence Day Celebration . Statement released by Sir Okocha reads :
On this historic day of our nation’s Independence, I, on behalf of my family and the Rivers State Office of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), heartily felicitate with His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Government and good people of Rivers State, and indeed all Nigerians, as we celebrate yet another milestone in our collective journey as a nation.
Sixty-five years ago, our founding fathers laid the foundation of freedom, unity, and hope, birthing a sovereign nation blessed with enormous human and natural resources. Their sacrifices remain a constant reminder that our independence is both a heritage and a responsibility, a call to duty for each generation to build on the vision of a prosperous Nigeria.
Today, under the purposeful leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria is charting a bold and transformative course through the Renewed Hope Agenda. This agenda resonates deeply with our aspirations as a people, rekindling trust in governance, revitalising our economy, prioritising infrastructure, and giving every citizen a renewed sense of belonging.
As Rivers people, we are not just beneficiaries of this renewed hope; we are active partners in its realisation. Our state stands tall as a vital contributor to the Nigerian economy, and our loyalty to the Nigerian project is unwavering. We shall continue to support the policies and programmes of the Federal Government to ensure that Rivers State remains at the forefront of national growth and development.
Independence Day is also a moment of reflection. We must remind ourselves that the greatness of Nigeria is not the task of government alone but the collective responsibility of all citizens. Unity, peace, and patriotism remain our strongest weapons to overcome the challenges that confront us. I therefore call on Rivers people, and indeed all Nigerians, to shun divisive tendencies and embrace the spirit of brotherhood, hard work, and resilience that defines us.
As we hoist our green-and-white flag today, may it inspire in us a renewed determination to preserve the unity of our country, uphold democratic ideals, and secure a brighter future for generations yet unborn.
May the labour of our heroes past never be in vain.
May Rivers State continue to flourish.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Happy Independence Day!
Signed,
Hon. Chief Tony C. Okocha, KSC, JP, DSSRS
Rivers State Representative on the NDDC Board.
October 1, 2025.
