Sen. Ned Nwoko (APC–Delta North) has called on Nigerian leaders to prioritise citizens’ welfare above the pursuit of wealth as the country celebrates its 65th independence anniversary.
In a statement made available in Abuja on Tuesday, Nwoko described Nigeria as a resilient nation that has overcome setbacks but must now transform its wealth into wellbeing for the people.
“Nigeria at 65 must choose to lead, not as a country of wasted potential, but as a nation that secures communities, empowers youth, modernises infrastructure, and builds institutions that outlive individuals,” he said.
Nwoko, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, lauded the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration for stabilising the economy, curbing reckless imports, and expanding social programmes, but stressed that “macroeconomic gains must translate to microeconomic relief.”
He also backed Nigeria’s push for a permanent African seat on the UN Security Council, debt relief, equity in resource ownership, and bridging the digital divide, describing them as “lived realities that define our struggle as a nation.”
Highlighting his legislative priorities, Nwoko said justice, dignity, sovereignty, and opportunity must guide national progress, citing efforts on reparations, social security, healthcare, education, youth entrepreneurship, and diaspora voting.
“Our journey is far from finished,” he added. “But if we keep faith with one another and place people at the centre of our policies, this decade can be the turning point when Nigeria moves from survival to greatness. The struggle continues, but so does the hope.”
