Niger State Governor, Alhaji Abubakar Sani Bello, has called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of patriotism and peaceful co-existence that propelled the founding fathers in the quest to build a united, indivisible and prosperous nation.

He made the call in a radio and television broadcast in Minna on Sunday to mark the nation's 57th Independence Day celebration.

The Governor charged all Nigerians to reflect on the gains and lessons learnt from the founding fathers in order to face the task ahead.

“We need to take it (our commitment) beyond our hero’s past to reflect on the gains and lessons learnt over the years to take charge and face the challenges of our time.

“The tributes we pay to our fallen and living heroes must not end alone on our lips as we sing the National anthem, but must be evident in our character of selflessness and sense of responsibility that characterised the lives of our heroes.”

Governor Sani Bello further said that for the nation to actualise her corporate vision, there was need for all citizens to appreciate the differences and diversity inherent in Nigeria’s system.

“The is anniversary also call for new resolutions and new visions for every citizens of this great nation to rededicate ourselves towards pursuing its unity, development”

“We should understand the need to respect our differences and appreciate our diversities. We are one people under God, North or South, we are all Nigerians that have one destiny netted together in project Nigeria.”

He emphasised the need for all Nigerians to coexist without acrimony, rancour and hostility, rather with compassion and mutual respect for one another.

The governor assured Nigerlites of his administration’s commitment to remain focus in delivering people oriented projects that will have direct positive impact on the lives of masses and transform the critical sectors of the state.

He maintained that the ongoing transformations of his administration in the state were meant to strengthen the foundations of her economy and social life; create jobs and enhance productivity.

Governor Sani Bello used the independence celebration to grant State Pardon to seven prisoners. This was done “in exercise of the power conferred on (him) by Section 212 (1) (a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and all other powers enabling (him) in that behalf and after consultation with the State Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.” The Governor has directed Ministry of Justice to work with Nigerian Prison to ensure that freed prisoners are reunited with their families and properly reintegrated into the society.

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