Nigeria at 66: Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda Urges Nigerians to Keep Hope Alive

 Nigeria at 66: Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda Urges Nigerians to Keep Hope Alive.

The President of the Africa Regional Council of Women (ARCW), Dr Gloria Laraba Shoda, MFR, mni, has felicitated with the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and all Nigerians at home and in the diaspora on the occasion of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, urging citizens to remain hopeful and committed to building a better nation.

Dr Shoda, a former National President of the National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), Founder and President of the Africa League of Women Voters (ALWOV) and Board Member of the International Council of Women (ICW), said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria's journey while renewing faith in its enormous potential.

She said:

“Nigeria will be better. We may not yet be where we desire to be, but we must never lose faith in the possibility of a better Nigeria. Our challenges must not be greater than our hope.”

Dr Shoda particularly celebrated Nigerian women and urged them to continue playing their vital roles in families, communities, the economy and national development. She encouraged women to support one another and ensure that the next generation of women and girls has greater opportunities to learn, lead and succeed.

To Nigerian girls, she said their present circumstances should never determine the limits of their dreams, urging them to embrace education, knowledge, character, courage and hard work.

She also called for greater protection, education and opportunities for Nigerian children, describing them as the nation's future.

Dr Shoda extended a special message to Nigerians in the diaspora, reminding them that wherever they may be, they remain part of the Nigerian story and can contribute to the nation's progress.

She called for greater unity, responsible citizenship and commitment to the common good, saying:

“I believe in Nigeria. I believe in our women, our young people and our children. Together, we can build the Nigeria we want to leave for generations yet unborn.”

Happy 66th Independence Anniversary to Nigeria and all Nigerians. May God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.