Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has urged Nigerians to be patriotic in their choices of choosing leaders for the forthcoming 2023 general elections
Jonathan who made this call in his speech to celebrate Nigeria’s 62rd Independence day on Saturday, 1st of October, 2022, also urged Nigerians to prioritize unity and peace of the country in their campaigns.
According to him, “Fellow Nigerians, our anniversary this year comes at a time our nation is preparing for general elections. It is a critical moment for us all.
“The elections provide another opportunity for our citizens to demonstrate our faith in the greatness of our nation. Let us be patriotic in the choices we make.
“Let us prioritise the unity and peace of our country in our campaigns, and through the choices we make at the polls next year”, the former President said.
Jonathan appealed to Nigerians to use the anniversary to reflect on the promises of freedom, hope, peace, and unity that comes with independence.
“Sixty-two years into this journey, we have every cause to reflect on the experience of our nationhood, the prospect of our greatness and how to surmount the challenges that limit our progress as a nation.
“As a country, we have made significant impacts on the global stage in sports, arts, music, and academia. Our citizens have asserted themselves as people with strength, courage, and honour in different spheres”.
The former President recalled that Nigerians have remained steadfast in patriotism in challenging times of the nationhood, demonstrated faith in moments of doubt, displayed resilience in times of adversity, and pursued peace when the unity was threatened.
He called on Nigerians to work in unity, live in peace, promote justice, and accommodate each other. “That way, we shall build an inclusive and cohesive society where everyone is happy, safe, and proud of his country.