The Rector, Micheal Adeniyi Koleosho Polytechnic (MAKPoly), Saki, Surv. Sikiru Adetona Ajibola, has called on Nigerians to sustain unity, peace and hope while embracing opportunities in education as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Ajibola, in a statement issued on Thursday to commemorate the anniversary, said the nation’s progress would be significantly enhanced when citizens, particularly the younger generation, were empowered through quality education, skills acquisition and other legitimate opportunities for self-development.
He urged Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence and renew their commitment to nation-building, stressing that education remained a veritable instrument for human capital development, social transformation and sustainable economic growth.
The rector commended Nigerians for their resilience, sacrifices and perseverance in the face of the socio-economic challenges confronting the nation, noting that building a prosperous Nigeria required the collective responsibility of the government, institutions, traditional authorities and citizens.
He said tertiary institutions had a critical role to play in preparing young Nigerians for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world through sound academic training, vocational education, technological innovation and character development.
Ajibola said, “Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we must continue to work together to build a country where quality education, peace, justice, security and prosperity are accessible to all.
“Independence Day should remind us of our shared identity and the responsibility we have towards one another. Whatever our differences, we must continue to promote unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
“Our youths must be encouraged to take advantage of legitimate educational and skills-development opportunities available to them. Education is not merely a means of obtaining certificates; it is a powerful instrument for unlocking human potential and equipping individuals to contribute meaningfully to national development.”
The rector also urged the people of Sakiland to sustain the peace and unity for which the ancient town was known, calling on traditional rulers, religious leaders, political actors, youths and other stakeholders to place the collective interests of the community above personal differences.
He particularly charged the youths to shun violence, criminality and other activities capable of undermining their future, urging them instead to pursue education, entrepreneurship, vocational training and other productive ventures.
Ajibola said the development of Sakiland and Oyo State was intrinsically linked to the empowerment of their young people, adding that a well-educated and skilled population would constitute a formidable foundation for sustainable development.
He congratulated Nigerians on the 66th anniversary of the nation’s independence and prayed for peace, stability and prosperity across the country.
He also prayed for continued peace, progress and development in Sakiland and Oyo State, while seeking divine guidance and protection for Nigeria and its people.
He wished Nigerians a peaceful, purposeful and meaningful Independence Day celebration.
E-Signed:
Surv. Sikiru Adetona Ajibola
Rector, Micheal Adeniyi Koleosho Polytechnic (MAKPoly), Saki
October 1, 2026.