By Adeola Kunle
As Nigeria commemorates its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, has congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging citizens to sustain the values of unity, patriotism, resilience and collective responsibility in the pursuit of a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Alausa said the anniversary offers Nigerians an important moment to reflect on the country’s journey since independence, celebrate their shared national identity and renew their commitment to building a stronger and more united Nigeria.
The Minister emphasised that the country’s future is closely tied to the quality of education provided to its children and young people, noting that education remains a critical driver of human capital development, social mobility, innovation and sustainable national growth.
He expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his leadership and sustained support for education and human capital development.
According to him, the Federal Government, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, is implementing far-reaching interventions through the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative, NESRI, to strengthen the education sector and create greater opportunities for Nigerians.
He said the initiative is supporting efforts to expand access to education, strengthen educational institutions, improve learning outcomes, enhance teacher quality, promote technical and vocational education, and equip young Nigerians with the knowledge and skills required to contribute effectively to national development.
Alausa acknowledged that significant work remains ahead, stressing the need for continued efforts to improve foundational learning, strengthen teacher development, expand technical and skills education, promote research and innovation, and provide safe and conducive learning environments for every Nigerian child.
He reaffirmed his commitment to working with governments at all levels, teachers, parents, students, education stakeholders and development partners to develop an education system that is accessible, equitable, innovative and responsive to the demands of a rapidly changing world.
The Minister also urged young Nigerians to remain hopeful, disciplined and committed to excellence, stressing that their knowledge, character, creativity and skills are vital to building the country they desire.
He noted that young Nigerians should not see themselves merely as future leaders, but as active participants in shaping the country's present and determining its future.
“As we celebrate our independence, let us continue to uphold unity, patriotism, service and a shared sense of responsibility,” the Minister said, adding that building the Nigeria citizens desire requires the collective efforts of all Nigerians, with education serving as one of the strongest foundations for achieving that goal.
Alausa paid tribute to Nigerians for the courage and resilience that have continued to define the nation, as he called on citizens to remain committed to the progress and unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He wished Nigerians a happy Independence Day and prayed for God's continued blessings upon Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all citizens of the country.
Adeola Kunle

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