Independence: Cleric calls for national renewal, urges Nigerians to embrace integrity

A Nigerian cleric, Pastor Amos Dada, PhD; P.Eng, has described the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary as a moment for sober reflection, urging Nigerians to embrace integrity and stop all forms of dishonesty that hinder national growth. Pastor Dada, who is Zonal Superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Canada Zone, said in his anniversary message that […]

A Nigerian cleric, Pastor Amos Dada, PhD; P.Eng, has described the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary as a moment for sober reflection, urging Nigerians to embrace integrity and stop all forms of dishonesty that hinder national growth.

Pastor Dada, who is Zonal Superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Canada Zone, said in his anniversary message that Nigeria remains a “sleeping giant” because corruption and lack of accountability have slowed down her progress.

“As Nigeria celebrates her 65th Independence, there is little to rejoice about when we weigh the cost of corruption against the promise of freedom,” he said. “Our nation has not reached its full potential because the values of honesty, service, and responsibility are often neglected. If we want Nigeria to heal, we must first stop cutting corners and cheating the system.”

According to him, corruption is not just a leadership problem but one that cuts across society, adding that all Nigerians have a role to play in rebuilding the country.

“Corruption is not confined to politicians; it touches every sector, every institution, every community, and even personal lives. Until we stop normalizing dishonest practices in our daily activities, we cannot achieve the greatness we long for,” he said.

He urged citizens to cultivate integrity in their professions, schools, markets, and religious institutions, stressing that “nation-building is everybody’s responsibility.”

Pastor Dada, who also serves as Chairman of CAC Men’s Association, North America, and Dean of the church’s Bible Institute in North America, called on the government to continue strengthening anti-corruption agencies, while urging citizens to demand accountability and transparency.

He further encouraged Nigerians to rekindle hope and unity, saying: “Nigeria will only rise when Nigerians decide to uphold truth, justice, and fairness in all areas of life. At 65, we must choose to build a nation that values honesty over selfish gain, and service over exploitation.”

He concluded by reminding Nigerians that independence is not just about freedom from colonial rule, but also about freeing the nation from the chains of corruption, poverty, and moral decay.