As Nigeria marks her 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026, the Moshood Ajadi Foundation has extended warm greetings to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, while calling on all stakeholders to renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and united nation.

Nigeria formally gained independence on October 1, 1960, and the Federal Government has designated 2026 as the nation’s 66th Independence anniversary.

Speaking on the occasion, Amb. Dr. Chief Abioye Ajadi, Founder of the Moshood Ajadi Foundation, said the anniversary should go beyond celebration and serve as an opportunity for national reflection, responsibility and renewed hope.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us. Every Nigerian has a role to play in determining the kind of country we leave for the next generation. We must all play our roles judiciously and responsibly so that Nigeria does not regress, but continues to move forward.”

He called on political leaders, public servants, traditional rulers, religious leaders, business owners, professionals, civil society organisations, young people and ordinary citizens to contribute positively to national development within their respective spheres.

According to him, nation-building requires more than government action. It requires citizens who respect the law, promote peace, reject violence and corruption, support education, protect public property, encourage entrepreneurship and contribute to the development of their communities.

He further urged leaders at all levels to remain accountable and responsive to the needs of the people, while encouraging citizens to participate constructively in democratic processes and demand good governance through lawful and peaceful means.

“We must learn to disagree without destroying one another. Our ethnic, religious and regional differences should not become barriers to our collective progress. Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength, creativity and opportunity,” he said.

Chief Ajadi also emphasized the importance of education, youth empowerment, skills development, job creation, healthcare, security, infrastructure and support for small businesses as areas requiring sustained attention if Nigeria is to create greater opportunities for its growing population.

He called on Nigerian youths to believe in their potential, acquire relevant skills, embrace technology and entrepreneurship, and resist activities that could jeopardize their future.

The Foundation also encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to continue contributing their expertise, investments and networks toward national development.

The Moshood Ajadi Foundation urged Nigerians to embrace a culture of patriotism that goes beyond displaying the national flag or celebrating Independence Day.

“Patriotism is also about doing the right thing when nobody is watching; paying our obligations, protecting our communities, helping the vulnerable, respecting one another and contributing something positive to society,” the Foundation stated.

The organisation expressed optimism that with responsible leadership, active citizenship, unity, justice, education, innovation and collective sacrifice, Nigeria can continue to build a stronger future.

As the nation celebrates 66 years of independence, the Foundation called on Nigerians to choose hope over despair, cooperation over division, productivity over dependency and service over selfishness.

Amb. Dr. Chief Abioye Ajadi and the Moshood Ajadi Foundation wish all Nigerians a peaceful, prosperous and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.

Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

God bless Nigeria.