From Yakubu Wuyep, Jos
The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Plateau State, Brigadier General John Sunday Sura (Rtd.), has urged Nigerians to remain resilient and committed to the country.
Sura, in his Independence Day message, extended warm greetings to Nigerians and said the day goes beyond celebrating a date, but honours the collective resilience, strength and unyielding spirit of the Nigerian people.
”As a retired military officer who has dedicated a lifetime to defending the territorial integrity of our great nation, I know firsthand the sacrifices that hold the fabric of our country together,” he said.
According to him, the unity of Nigeria remains sacrosanct, adding that true independence will not be fully realised until every citizen can sleep with both eyes closed, free from insecurity, economic hardship and injustice.
Speaking on the theme, ‘Securing our land, rebuilding our future,’ Sura noted that the persistent security threats that have disrupted rural communities must not be ignored.
He stressed that development can only thrive in an atmosphere of enduring peace, expressing conviction that with strategic security intelligence, proactive leadership and sincere commitment to justice, the cycle of violence can be halted and a safer, more prosperous society rebuilt.
”Our diversity is not a weakness; it is our greatest asset. On this historic day, I urge all Nigerians, regardless of faith, ethnicity or political affiliation, to rise above divisive sentiments,” he stated.
He called on citizens to join the ‘One Tribe, One People, One Plateau’ movement for sustainable peace and development of Plateau State, and to build bridges of mutual respect to safeguard indigenous communities and unlock the state’s socio-economic potential.
Sura added that true liberation requires leadership with character, integrity and a people-centered vision that ensures political equality, active involvement of youth and women in governance, and accessible economic opportunities for all.
”As we look toward the future with a shared determination to restore the glory of Plateau State and Nigeria at large, let us renew our faith in our nation’s promise. Together, we have the capacity and the audacity to correct our course and steer our society toward sustainable peace and stardom,” he said.