Marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has appealed to citizens to renounce violence, foster unity, and maintain peaceful coexistence across the nation.
Yusuf made the call in Kano while addressing residents at the Sani Abacha Stadium during the state’s celebration of the national anniversary.
He said Nigeria’s independence should serve as a reminder of the responsibilities shared by citizens and governments in building a peaceful and prosperous country.
The governor said the country’s diversity in languages, cultures, traditions and faiths should be transformed into a source of strength rather than division.
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“Our diversity is not a weakness. Our different languages, cultures, traditions and faiths are part of the richness of the Nigerian identity,” he said.
Yusuf said the task before Nigerians was to promote mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and a shared sense of citizenship.
He urged citizens to obey the law, protect public property, reject violence and criminality, pay legitimate taxes and contribute to the peace and development of their communities.
The governor also linked the celebration to the need for stability as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He appealed to Nigerians to maintain peace, unity and mutual respect during the electoral process, while rejecting actions capable of threatening the stability of the country.
Yusuf said Independence Day should not be treated merely as a ceremony but as a moment for Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought for self-government and renew their commitment to nation-building.
He said the national theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity,” should remind leaders and citizens that reforms must ultimately translate into stability, opportunity, dignity and improved quality of life for ordinary Nigerians.
The governor said Kano, as a historic centre of commerce, enterprise, learning and culture, had a special responsibility to contribute to national development.
He called on residents to support efforts aimed at building a peaceful society where citizens could pursue legitimate aspirations and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Yusuf also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and security agencies for their support to the state, while urging residents to remain law-abiding and responsible.
What You Should Know
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf used the 66th Independence Anniversary celebration in Kano to address the importance of maintaining peace and stability, particularly looking ahead to the upcoming 2027 general elections. He emphasized that Nigeria’s diverse cultures and faiths should unite rather than divide the populace, while urging citizens to be law-abiding, pay taxes, and reject criminality.
- Positive Impact: Encouraging peaceful coexistence and unity helps reduce political tensions, fosters a secure environment for business and daily life, and promotes national development.
- Potential Concerns: Escalating political rhetoric as 2027 approaches could heighten security risks if citizens fail to heed calls for tolerance and lawful conduct during the electoral process.

