By Adeola Badru

An Australian-based Nigerian journalist, Mr. Obinna Ejianya, has used the occasion of Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary to call on Nigerians to rekindle national pride and patriotism.

In a statement he personally signed and made available to Vanguard on Monday, Ejianya called on all Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora, political and religious leaders to rekindle national pride, patriotism and love for God and country.

He added that this is essentially what differentiates the advanced countries from the developing or underdeveloped countries.

Ejianya, the CEO of Nine Communications Nigeria Limited, and the Publisher of 9News Nigeria, said Nigeria’s diversities should be an unbreakable bond and strength that should unite Nigerians rather than tool that divides them.

According to him, “We should, like other developed countries of the world, encourage diversity and inclusiveness. The theme demonstrates a deep understanding of who we are and what we stand for. It tells of the great past and beautiful future ahead of us.”

“Personally, I believe the Nigeria Project is still an achievable one if only we can only let go corruption and wickedness and seek the face of God while doing our businesses with all sincerity and honesty.”

“The truth is that loving God and country is not a big deal, it is one of the easiest thing a man can do; but greed and selfishness has made it so impossible until now. But I have this hope that going forward, there shall be a renewed national patriotism, fairness and equity, sense of belonging from the north to the south, from the east to the west, and by this Nigeria shall rise again.”

“In all of this, I call for everyone to remain in the faith and brotherhood that binds us for an increased solidarity with NigeriaFIRST Campaigns for better and progressive Nigeria.”

“And to my brothers and sisters and friends in the Diaspora Community, I encourage you not to lose hope, not turn your back on Nigeria and Nigerians at home. This is one of the difficult moments in our nation but it is and will soon be the brightest so far”, Ejianya said.

He stated categorically that, despite the challenges Nigeria is currently facing as a Country, it continues to remain a pride, identity and beloved nation to its citizens.

Ejianya said Nigerians should be proud of their country, saying this is because Nigerians all over the world are making tremendous progress in all walks of life, “and that significantly shows we are a great people.

“I, personally, have been very vocal against the bad governance that has hitherto deprived the country of its place among the civilised and developed countries of the world.”

“Nigeria with all its enviable blessings of natural and human resources should be the beacon of hope and pride for all the black people all over the world, but bad governance cum bad leadership has consistently marred that dream, but we will never give up. We will continue to keep the politicians and leaders on their toes until they begin to walk their talks.”

“While I acknowledge many of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s policies that have improved the sordid state of some aspects of the country, such as in the areas of security in some parts of the country, infrastructural upgrades and long-term financial policies, I still expect that this government should heed to the pressures and cries of most Nigerians who are facing aggravated grave hardship as a result of high cost of fuel. I salute the resilience of Nigerians to keep moving on, even in the face of hardship, but for how long?

“The faith and uncommon solidarity we share amongst ourselves remains the greatest strength and the reason we are moving on as a Country. We Nigerian young people must rise now and take the centre stage in putting Nigeria First on global map, as we have done the country proud in entertainment, business, sports, music and many other aspects of stride both continentally and globally.”

“Let me in all sincerity thank the Almighty God for yet another opportunity given to us as a People and as a Country to witness the 64th anniversary celebration of our beloved nation, Nigeria; as well as the 5th Anniversary of JusticeNOW International, a vision of our dear friends and partners, Sir Dr. Mike Okiro, the former Inspector General of Police and Board Chairman of JusticeNOW International, as well as my brother and friend Comrade Vik-Morrow the foreman of this great organisation.”

“I want to use this opportunity to celebrate Sir Dr. Mike Okiro, who though retired yet is not tired in the promotion of the visionary young Nigerians. Sir Mike Okiro is one of the finest leaders we have in this country who tirelessly fight to see that our dear country, Nigeria becomes like other developed countries of the world in their lifetime.”

“The passion he has for Nigeria dated back in 1st of October 1960 when he was picked to join few others to breakdown the British flag and raise the Nigerian flag. Honestly his love for nation building is worthy of emulation to the young people of Nigeria.”