Onyekachi Eze 
The Labour Party (LP) wants the Federal Government to adopt the citizen-centric approach to governance, to lift the country from its present stagnation and underdevelopment.
The Chairperson of the Labour Party National Caretaker Committee Senator Esther Nenadi Usman, in a message to mark Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, said the focus should shift to improving access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, as well as ensuring free and fair elections.
Senator Usman noted that Nigeria is richly endowed with natural, human, and material resources, but regretted that her progress has been hindered by years of stagnation and setbacks.
“The statistics paint a troubling picture,” she said, adding that “nearly half of our population lives below the poverty line, and over 20 million children are currently out of school.
“Corruption continues to cripple our economy, and the integrity of our politics and elections raises significant concerns.”
The Chairperson blamed the current state of affairs on governance failures and rampant corruption, noting that the transformation of the economy has not yielded the gains hoped for.
To reverse the decline and chart a course for a brighter future, Senator Usman called for decisive action.
She advised the Federal Government to initiate policies that will promote macroeconomic stability, stimulate private sector growth, and expand social safety nets for the most vulnerable.
“We must foster unity across tribal and religious lines to build a new and productive Nigeria, one that prioritises the collective well-being of all its citizens.
“As we commemorate this independence anniversary, let us pledge to take meaningful steps toward a better future for Nigeria.
“This is a time for collective action, courageous leadership, and a shared commitment to progress,” she added.
