The Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga, MNIQS, RQS, has congratulated Nigerians on the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, calling for renewed patriotism, unity and collective commitment to the development of the country.
In a goodwill message, Emberga described the anniversary as an important occasion for citizens to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since independence, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew their dedication to building a peaceful, united and prosperous nation. He commended Nigerians for their resilience, patriotism, perseverance and enduring faith in the Nigerian project, stressing that the country still holds enormous potential to attain greater heights through purposeful leadership, responsible citizenship and collective action.
The Speaker acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in steering the affairs of the nation and urged the Federal Government to sustain policies aimed at improving living conditions, strengthening national security, expanding economic opportunities and providing critical infrastructure. He particularly appealed to the President to give special attention to the basic needs of the people of Benue, especially in infrastructural development, security, agriculture, education, healthcare and economic empowerment, noting that Benue, as the food basket of the nation, has a strategic role to play in Nigeria’s economic transformation and food security.
Emberga also commended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his sterling leadership and commitment to the development of Benue State, urging him to continue supporting initiatives that directly impact the lives and welfare of residents and to sustain attention to infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, agriculture, commerce and industry. He further appealed to both the President and the Governor to maintain a spirit of collaboration and cordial relationship with the Benue State House of Assembly and other institutions of government, describing effective cooperation as essential to delivering meaningful development.
The Speaker called on the political class, traditional, religious and community leaders to promote peace and dialogue while encouraging citizens to reject violence, intolerance and any actions capable of undermining national unity and stability. He urged leaders at all levels to remain responsive to the needs of the people and intensify efforts towards improving security, infrastructure, education, healthcare, employment and economic opportunities. Nigerian youths, he said, should remain hopeful and actively participate in nation-building as critical stakeholders in determining the country’s future direction and prosperity.
Emberga also urged Nigerians to support legitimate efforts by governments at all levels to transform the economy and improve public services, while reminding citizens of their responsibilities through hard work, peaceful coexistence, respect for the rule of law and responsible citizenship. He expressed optimism that with sustained commitment, responsible leadership, citizen participation and support for development-oriented policies, Nigeria would overcome its present challenges and realise its full potential among the comity of nations.
The message was signed by Zape Michael Upaa, Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Benue State House of Assembly, and dated 1st October 2026.
