The National President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Archbishop Francis Wale Oke, has called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts to address insecurity, economic hardship and corruption as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence anniversary.

Oke made the call in his Independence Day message to Nigerians on Thursday, October 1, 2026, urging the Federal and state governments to take practical steps to improve citizens' welfare, encourage industrial development and create conditions in which businesses can operate and grow.

While congratulating Nigerians on the anniversary, the PFN president said the occasion should serve not only as a period of celebration but also as an opportunity for honest reflection on the country's progress and the challenges that remain.

He acknowledged that Nigeria had recorded achievements since independence but said the country still faced serious issues requiring sustained attention, particularly in the areas of security, economic wellbeing and governance.

On insecurity, Oke stressed that peace and the protection of lives are essential for meaningful national development. He called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts against banditry and terrorism and to ensure that those responsible for violent crimes, as well as their financiers, are brought to justice.

The PFN leader has previously raised similar concerns about insecurity, including calls for stronger coordination and decisive action to protect citizens. In May 2026, the fellowship described the security situation as requiring urgent government intervention.

Oke also expressed concern about the economic difficulties confronting many Nigerians. He urged both federal and state authorities to make better use of Nigeria's human and natural resources to improve living standards rather than allowing the benefits of national resources to be concentrated among a limited section of society.

He called for policies and legislation that would make it easier for businesses to operate, expand and create jobs. He also advocated greater emphasis on industrialisation, arguing that expanding productive capacity could support economic, technological and social development.

The PFN president further criticised corruption, describing it as a major obstacle to accountability, transparency and the rule of law. He urged governments at the federal, state and local levels to strengthen efforts to tackle corrupt practices and ensure that the benefits of democratic governance reach ordinary citizens.

According to Oke, corruption affects public resources, social equality, public confidence and opportunities available to young Nigerians. His concerns about corruption and governance are consistent with previous public interventions in which he has called for stronger action against problems affecting the country's development.

He also raised concern about the illicit drug trade and its potential impact on young people, urging authorities to intensify measures against the production and movement of illegal drugs through the country.

Beyond government action, Oke appealed to Nigerians to take collective responsibility for the country's future. He called for greater unity across ethnic, religious and social lines and encouraged citizens to contribute to efforts aimed at building a peaceful, just and prosperous Nigeria.

The PFN president said he remained hopeful about Nigeria's future, stressing that national progress would require both effective governance and responsible participation by citizens.

His message came as Nigeria marked 66 years since gaining independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The anniversary provides an annual opportunity for reflection on the country's political, economic and social development as well as its continuing challenges.

Oke concluded by congratulating Nigerians and calling for renewed commitment to the country's development and shared future.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia