By Seyifunmi Odunuga
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State and former gubernatorial aspirant, Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao (Alao), has felicitated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, residents of the state and Nigerians as a whole on the occasion of the 64th Independence anniversary of the country.
Alao in a statement by his Media Office, said though the celebration is coming at a time that the country is passing through one of its most challenging periods, there is cause to appreciate God that the country is still standing as one.
While expressing optimism that the country is blessed with both the human and natural resources to overcome its challenges, the Asiwaju of Irokoland called on Nigerians irrespective of tribe and religion to work towards enthroning equity, justice, peace, and national cohesion for the country to realise its potential.
According to him, this is the time for Nigerians to remain committed to the task of charting a more progressive path for a greater tomorrow, noting that they must not despair but have faith that tomorrow would be better for the country. 
He enjoined Nigerians to continue to support the administration of President Tinubu to realise its Renewed Hope agenda for the country as the government cannot do it alone, stating that doomsayers and pessimists would soon be disappointed.
“I want to sincerely congratulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and all Nigerians both at home and in the Diaspora on the occasion of the country’s 64th independence anniversary.
“While there is no doubt that the country is presently faced with what can be described as tumultuous challenges, I want to appeal to us all to have faith that tomorrow would be better for the country as the possibilities and opportunities ahead outweigh the challenges.
“I beseech us to remain steadfast and continue to stand with the administration of President Bola Tinubu”, APC chieftain concluded.
