ADDRESS TO THE NATION BY PRESIDENT GOODLUCK EBELE JONATHAN, GCFR, ON THE OCCASION OF NIGERIA'S 51STINDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY
1ST OCTOBER 2011
Fellow Compatriots,
1. On this day 51 years ago, the British Union Jack was lowered and replaced by our national Green-White-Green flag, heralding the independence of our nation. The 1st of October remains a special day for us, for Africa, and indeed the world.
2. As we celebrate today, we remember with pride, the nationalism and patriotism that inspired our founding fathers and the Nigerian people. They set aside their differences, to secure the unity and independence of our great country.
3. That is the Nigerian spirit! For the Nigerian spirit cannot be broken. We are a resilient nation, determined to chart a course, through the turbulent waters of nation building. The Nigerian spirit is vibrant today in the world.
4. Our citizens at home and abroad, are making their mark in all fields of human endeavor. These hard-working and committed Nigerians, remain a source of pride to us and a beacon of what is achievable, if we remain focused and determined.
5. I know that a great number of you are joining hands with me and the Administration, in the great task ahead.
6. I value all Nigerians. I see our youth who are looking for jobs and yet remain hopeful. I see the farmer, and fisherman, toiling everyday to earn a living. I see the teacher, working hard, to train our future generations, with much sacrifice. I see the market women whose entrepreneurial spirit helps to generate income for their children and families. I see our sportsmen and women training hard to bring glory to our nation. I see our resilience and commitment, as a nation, to defend our democracy and secure our future.
7. I see every single profession and vocation, making positive contributions to national progress. I value you all!
8. Together, we shall work for a Nigeria in which democracy and the rule of law are sacrosanct.