NIGERIA at 54: Obama Congratulates Nigeria , Pledges Support Against Terrorism.

TODAY marks 54 years Nigeria got independence from the British colonial rule, however the question on the lips of most Nigerians; especially those that are not at the corridor of power or the vast majority of Nigerians that have neither links nor access to the tiny but very powerful and stinkingly rich and well protected ruling class, is whether there is anything truly worthy to celebrate or whether their lives have been truly fulfilled in the 54 years of the country; to warrant them to roll out the drum to rejoice.

  It is indeed an achievement though nominal to gain self-rule but again the inescapable question again is how this has translated to development, progress and improvement in the lives of the vast majority of Nigerians.

United States President Barack Obama has sent his greetings and that of the American people to Nigerians on the 54th independence anniversary of the country.

In a letter addressed to President Goodluck Jonathan, Obama acknowledged Nigeria's leadership role in Africa and at the United Nations (UN) towards promoting regional peace and stability.

The letter made available by the US Embassy in Abuja read in part: "At the heart of our enduring friendship is our shared commitment to democratic values, the rule of law, and economic development.

"We look forward to strengthening our relationship and working closely in the coming year, especially in promoting good governance and combating terrorism. As Nigerians observe this special day, we wish you a more peaceful and prosperous year." Obama added that the US was looking forward to strengthening its relationship with Nigeria in the coming year, especially on good governance.



In addition to Obama's congratulatory message, Senate President David Mark and his deputy, Ike Ekweremadu, yesterday urged Nigerians to sustain their faith in Nigeria and remain steadfast in the effort to promote peace and the unity of Nigeria no matter the challenges.

Mark, in a goodwill message to Nigerians to mark today's 54th independence anniversary, said the indivisibility of the nation was not negotiable as he recalled the nation's chequered political history since 1960, during which Nigeria went through a 30-month fratricidal civil war, various ethno-religious conflicts, adding that the crises were surmountable.