we have all it takes to remain one nation- Oyetola

Gov. Gboyega Oyetola of Osun, says the steadfastness of Nigerians in the face of challenges is a proof that we have all it takes to remain one and indivisible nation.

Oyetola said this in his message to the people of Osun to mark Nigeria's 61st Independence Day celebration on Friday in Osogbo.

In the message issued by Ismail Omipidan, the governor's Chief Press Secretary, Oyetola urged Nigerians and people of the state to look forward to a better tomorrow.

The governor said the state government had not deviated from the vision of the state's founding fathers for an Osun of everyone's dream and pride.

"Our resolve, creativity and innovations have never failed us.

" Despite the conspiracy of the global economic downturn and the Coronavirus pandemic, we have kept our eyes on good governance, inclusive governance, strong institutions and the rule of law.

"Our economy remains resilient even in the face of debilitating resources. We have proven that a resilient economy is possible in the face of economic doldrums.

"We are gradually moving away from a monolithic economy to diversified economy in Osun that is hinged on the people, agriculture, tourism and mining, the three critical pillars of our economy," he said.

He added that his administration had kept the state relatively safe by collaborating with security agencies to promote and encourage investment to the state.

"In the face of limited resources, we have stabilized the economy, paid salaries as and when due and substantially paid pensions.

"We have also built infrastructures for socioeconomic development and redefined governance by blocking economic leakages," he said.

According to Oyetola, experience has shown that real independence means political will, sound economic policies, strong institutions, rule of law and a people who are resolved to take their destinies in their own hands.

He appealed to Nigerians as the nation celebrate its 61st anniversary to remain steadfast in the belief and hope for a better tomorrow.

Oyetola urged them to collaborate with the government at all levels to take Osun to greater heights.

" I wish you a better and stronger Osun and a more united and peaceful Federal Republic of Nigeria," the governor said.