As Nigeria turns 60, President, Women Arise and Centre for Change, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, has urged Nigerians to use it as an occasion to reflect, ‘so as to collectively chart a way forward for ourselves as a people.’

A statement tagged, ‘Nigeria @ 60: Still A Long Walk to Freedom,’ signed by the woman activist said, “There is no doubt that in the last 60 years of our Independence, our country has sunk in pandemic corruption, social crises, and economic dilapidation - all of which have led, year-in, year-out, to a systematic decline in the living standard of our people.

“Our much respected values of patriotism and uncompromising emphasis on integrity and honesty have been thrown to the dogs by the corrupt elements that have seized leadership positions at various levels in our country.

“Education is in practical ruins, just like critical infrastructures are in shambles with healthcare virtually in peril.

“Security of life and property is no longer guaranteed as lawlessness pervades everywhere, even among the law enforcement agents,” it said, adding, “Nigerians live in frustration, agony, hopelessness, misery, pain, and suffering.”

The statement also noted, “Almost 70 percent of Nigerians today live in abject poverty while a few are super rich at the expense of the downtrodden.

“Nigerian youths are continuously faced with an uncertain future because of the greed of a privileged few.

“Meanwhile, Nigeria is the only country that we can call ours and there is no other place to call home.

‘Therefore, the time has come for us as Nigerians to re-build our country because every problem, no matter how difficult, has a life span.

“We call on government at all levels to make the welfare of Nigerians top priority as well as earnestly begin a process of rebuilding hope, which is already nearly lost in the minds of Nigerians.

“We also demand that Government must do all within its powers to ensure the rescue of the remaining abducted Chibok and Dapchi school girls just like the other women, men, and children in the captivity of terrorists must be liberated,” the statement noted, insisting that, “Independence anniversary is also an auspicious occasion to demand an end to all forms of violence against women in Nigeria.”

“We can only hope that, henceforth, the dreams of our founding fathers shall become a reality. It is then that Nigerians will have their hope rekindled that they would be FREE from the social and economic slavery they have wallowed in despite the 60 years of Independence,” Joe Okei-Odumakin added.

The Centre however applauded Nigerians on another milestone anniversary of the Independence of our dear country Nigeria,” adding, “It is a milestone because the nation has attained 60 years of independence from colonial rule.”