The Peoples Democratic Party has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country’s future while strengthening their commitment to peace, national unity and development as Nigeria celebrates its 66th Independence Anniversary.

The party made the call in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, on Thursday, October 1, 2026, as Nigerians across the country marked 66 years of independence.

The PDP acknowledged that Nigeria has yet to reach the level of development many citizens desire, but said the country’s challenges should not become a reason for despair.

According to the party, Nigeria possesses significant human and natural resources that, if properly harnessed, can contribute to stronger economic development and a more prosperous future.

The party also highlighted Nigeria’s ethnic, cultural and religious diversity, calling on citizens and leaders to turn the country’s diversity into a source of unity and creativity rather than division.

The PDP urged Nigerians to reject violence and corruption and to place the national interest ahead of individual, ethnic, sectional or partisan considerations.

It further called for a country where young Nigerians can pursue their ambitions and build their futures with greater confidence.

The party said its message was particularly important as the country reflects on its journey since independence and considers the challenges and opportunities ahead.

The PDP also called on political leaders and citizens to remain committed to democratic values, good governance and the welfare of Nigerians.

While acknowledging the difficulties confronting the country, the party said Nigerians should continue to believe in the possibility of national progress rather than allow present challenges to extinguish hope for the future.

The party also paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers and other citizens who have contributed to the country's development over the decades, urging Nigerians to preserve the gains of the past while working to address the challenges of the present.

The PDP's Independence Day message comes amid broader calls from political and government leaders for Nigerians to maintain hope and work toward national unity.

President Bola Tinubu, in his Independence Day address, similarly described Nigeria’s journey as one marked by significant challenges while arguing that the country is moving from a period of economic reform toward a phase focused more heavily on growth and prosperity.

The Federal Government’s official theme for the 66th Independence Anniversary is “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.” The government has said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s progress while renewing efforts toward economic stability and improved opportunities for citizens.

The PDP said it remained committed to democracy and promised to continue providing an alternative political platform for Nigerians as the country seeks to realise its potential.

Nigeria became independent from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The 2026 celebration therefore marks 66 years of independence and comes as the country continues to grapple with economic, security and governance challenges while pursuing reforms aimed at improving national development.

As Nigeria marks another milestone in its history, the PDP's message centres on the need for citizens to maintain hope, protect national unity and contribute to building a country in which future generations can live, work and pursue their aspirations.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia