Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reiterated the need for Democracy in Nigeria to be strengthened not only by elections and electioneering, but also by the values that bind us together as a people.

The Governor who made the remarks at the Special Jumat service to mark the 66th National Day Celebration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, noted that as a new election year approaches, Nigerians should compete without hatred, disagree without violence and pursue aspirations without undermining the peace of the communities.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun, noted that this year’s special Jumah service was a moment of thanksgiving, reflection, and prayer for the continued peace, progress and prosperity of the country, stating that 66 years after attaining independence, there was need to be grateful to Almighty Allah for preserving the nation through the trials of a national journey.

Acknowledging the ongoing efforts of the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in strengthening the Nigerian economy, improving infrastructure, enhancing national security and expanding opportunities for its citizens through the Renewed Hope Agenda, just as he pleaded that reforms of such magnitude would require patience and sacrifice, while he prayed that these would translate into better lives and greater opportunities for the people.

He revealed that the present administration in Ogun State remained committed to building a safer, more prosperous and competitive State, stressing that it would continue to strengthen livelihoods, empower women, support vulnerable citizens and create opportunities for people to live with dignity.

While praying for a stronger and more united nation, the state's helmsman informed that religious leaders had a profound responsibility in shaping societal values, urging them, to continue to use the pulpit to preach peace, tolerance, honesty, compassion and responsible citizenship, reiterating that the Strength of any society would be measured by the quality of its values.

In his contribution, Senator representing Ogun Central, Senator Salis Afolabi Salisu, urged Nigerians to bear with government at all levels, especially when it appeared that some of the policies seemed harsh, saying, these were for  the betterment and development of the nation, commending service Chiefs and their men for the sacrifices towards protecting lives and citizens of the country.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Olanrewaju Saka, described this year's 66th National Day celebration as historic, as it marked the last celebration of Prince Dapo Abiodun led administration, praying that Almighty Allah would continue to uphold and prosper the State and the country at large.

In his sermon, Sheik Abdullah Belgore, urged government at the federal level to govern truthfully on states, State governments should govern local government truthfully, while the local government should govern truthfully on it’s local communities, adding that failure to govern with love and truth, is going against the wish of God.

He submitted that if one finds himself in an exalted position, he or she should exemplify good leadership by showing love to their followers or citizens particularly, in their policies and programmes at all times.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Ogun State Council of Obas and the Alake and Paramount ruler of Egbaland, HRM, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, represented by the Onijale ti Ijale Paapa, HRH, Oba Ajibola Babalola, felicitated with Ogun State government and the Federal government for witnessing another independent celebration, describing the 66 years as a great milestone, praying that God Almighty would continue to protect all citizens and guide leaders to lead right.

Highlight of the event was reading from the Holy Quran and prayers for the Governor, the State and the country at large.