Joint Call for Progress as JAMB, EFCC Celebrate Nigeria's 66 Years of Independence

Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary saw messages of congratulations and calls for sustained national development from key government agencies, including the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Both bodies urged Nigerians to continue striving for progress and contribute to the country's growth.

In its message released on Thursday, JAMB reflected on Nigeria's journey of transformation since gaining independence. The board highlighted the significant advancements the nation has experienced, particularly in technology. JAMB cited its own evolution from traditional pen-and-paper examinations to modern computer-based testing (CBT) as a mirror of Nigeria's broader developmental trajectory. “From pen and paper to keyboards and screens, Nigeria has evolved, and JAMB has evolved with her,” the board stated, emphasizing its alignment with national progress. JAMB further noted that the Independence Day celebration serves as a vital opportunity to acknowledge past accomplishments while also setting sights on future possibilities. The board concluded by extending warm wishes for a happy Independence Day to all Nigerians, adding, “As we celebrate another year of independence, we honour how far we’ve come and look ahead to all that is still possible.”

Echoing similar sentiments, the Chairman of the EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, acknowledged the considerable strides Nigeria has made in its nation-building efforts since achieving self-governance. Olukoyede's Independence Day message underscored that freedom and self-determination were paramount gifts of the nation's independence. “At 66, Nigeria has come a long way. Independence has offered us liberty and self-determination. We are also making considerable progress in nation building,” he remarked. He further characterized the ongoing development initiatives as crucial foundational elements for the envisioned greater Nigeria. “All these efforts are significant. They are the building blocks of the greater nation we desire,” Olukoyede asserted.

However, the EFCC chairman also issued a strong call for integrating reform-focused initiatives with an unwavering commitment to combating corruption. He stressed the imperative of zero tolerance for corrupt practices, warning against allowing them to undermine national development. “Let’s therefore couple all our reform-focussed initiatives with zero tolerance for corruption. We cannot be building and allow corrupt practices vitiate our efforts,” Olukoyede declared. He concluded by emphasizing that genuine and lasting progress necessitates a deliberate refusal to make compromises that could jeopardize the nation's advancement, expressing optimism that “Nigeria will surely get better!”