Soludo, wife, other top govt functionaries mark Nigeria at 66 with interdenominational thanksgiving service

By Joe Chukindi 

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, his wife Nonye and top government functionaries in the state on Sunday joined an interdenominational service to celebrate the 66 anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence.

The service was presided over by the Bishop of Awka Diocese of Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Rt Rev Dr Alex Ibezim.

Soludo who posted about the service said: “Today, together with my dear wife Nonye, my Deputy, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, members of the State Executive Council, the House of Assembly, and Ndi Anambra from all walks of life, we gathered at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith, Awka for an interdenominational thanksgiving service to mark Nigeria at 66.

“As we reflect on 66 years of our nationhood, it reminds us that nation-building is a collective responsibility. It requires our resilience, our sacrifice, and our active participation.

“True freedom, as Archbishop Alexander Ibezim reminded us in his powerful sermon titled “From Bondage to Freedom, God’s Purpose for Nigeria,” is beyond the raising of flags. It is about a people determining their own destiny. And while governments will come and go, Nigeria remains.

“Yes, we have challenges. The agricultural boom of old has waned, but Nigeria has not failed. Our duty is to bless this country, to speak well of her, and to brighten the corner where we are. For personal integrity is national integrity.

“As your government, we remain deeply committed to peace, progress and good governance in Anambra.

“May Nigeria continue to rise, and may Anambra continue to win. God bless Anambra State. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.