The Ukomu Igala Organisation (UIO) Worldwide has issued a statement marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, commending the country's resilience while raising serious concerns about poverty, insecurity, and deteriorating public services across the nation.
UIO Commends Tinubu's Reform Agenda
Major General James Ataguba (Rtd), president of the UIO, signed the statement on behalf of the organisation, which describes itself as a leading voice of the Igala people of Nigeria. Ataguba acknowledged the contributions of successive Nigerian leaders to the country's development, and specifically recognised the current administration's reform agenda. He said the organisation noted "the determination and courage of the current administration under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR to steer our dear nation through an arduous process of economic and structural reforms."
The statement, released on October 1, 2026, praised the government's efforts but did not shy away from the challenges still facing ordinary citizens. The UIO warned that the country continues to grapple with "multidimensional poverty, pervasive insecurity and a progressive deterioration of social amenities in the country, especially at the grassroots."
Concerns Over Poverty and Insecurity
The group said these problems, if not urgently addressed, could undermine the federal government's current reform efforts. The UIO called on the government to reassure citizens of its commitment to improving their welfare through "more practical and productive steps." This dual message of support and caution reflects the organisation's stance as a stakeholder in national development.
Ataguba used the anniversary to reaffirm the Igala people's loyalty to the Nigerian state, pointing to their long history of contributions to national security, public service, education, commerce, and culture. He also called on all Nigerians to take personal responsibility for nation-building, saying the future cannot rest on government alone.
Call for Shared Sacrifice and Patriotism
"The future that we desire for ourselves, our children and generations to come, cannot be built by the government alone. Rather, it can only materialise through shared commitment and sacrifices, hard work, and patriotism of all citizens of Nigeria," Ataguba said. This appeal underscores the organisation's belief in collective effort as the pathway to national progress.
The statement ended on an optimistic note, describing Nigeria as "a beacon of hope for Africa and the Black race" and expressing hope that the country would "soon be the envy and desire of all nations." The UIO's anniversary message thus balances recognition of current efforts with a clear-eyed view of the challenges ahead.
Context: Tinubu's Independence Day Address
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that President Tinubu on Thursday, October 1, 2026, reiterated the impact of his reforms in what would be his last Independence Day address before the 2027 elections. Tinubu likened Nigeria to a cancer patient when he assumed office in 2023, saying only painful treatment would have sufficed. The president also criticised some of his opponents who have proposed the restoration of energy subsidies, describing their prescriptions as "regressive."
The UIO's statement adds a community-level perspective to the national discourse, highlighting grassroots concerns that align with broader debates about reform sustainability. As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, the organisation's call for shared sacrifice and practical government action frames the path forward.
