By Aminu Garko
Prof. Rashid Haruna, Provost of Federal University of Education,Kontagora has urged Nigerians to remain united as the country marks her 62th Independence Day anniversary.
Haruna,in his statement to mark Nigeria’s 62nd Independence day Anniversary, also called on Nigerians to pray for the country and her leaders for the entrenchment of good governance and the well being of the people.
He said Nigeria had come a long way as one indivisible entity which every citizen must work to protect.
Haruna observed that despite its abundant human and mineral resources, Nigeria had not been able to place itself among the developed nations in the world.
He said that issues of corruption, selfishness, insecurity and lack of adequate planning to harness the God-given resources could be said to be responsible for the slow pace of development in the country.
The provost said:”Although giant strides have been recorded in different sectors of the economy, corruption has made it difficult to record more successes in different areas.
” Nigeria requires a national leadership with the understanding and capability to set the tone and direction for national growth and development.This must incorporate all citizens, irrespective of ethnic or geopolitical affiliation, in a grand vision of collective and dynamic growth.
” Nigeria remains a country of great potential, whose fountain of possibilities can be found in its growing population of educated citizens.
“Despite limitations in the educational sector, Nigeria has several universities producing required manpower for our nation optimal growth.
” The country churns out millions of graduates annually, creating the most educated workforce on the continent.
” It will be a challenge and a huge economic burden, if productive opportunities are not found for their engagement.
” Gainfully employed, these educated millions can be harnessed to drive Nigeria’s economic growth, thus promoting social stability.
” Federal and state governments should commit to the political will of creating job opportunities for these well educated citizens,to ensure rapid socio-economic and political growth of our country.”
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
