The All Progressives Congress (APC) has felicitated with all Nigerians on the occasion of the country’s 55th independence anniversary, being observed today, Thursday, Oct.1, 2015.

In a statement issued in Lagos on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, the party said the anniversary provides an opportunity to remember all the nation’s past heroes as well as the sacrifices they made to keep the nation united and strong, and to rededicate ourselves to the ideals for which they lived.

It said in order to ensure that the labour of those heroes past are not in vain, it was necessary for all Nigerians, in line with the wordings of the country’s national anthem, to re-commit themselves to serving their fatherland with love, strength and faith.

“We have no doubt that today’s generation of Nigerians have also made, and are indeed still making, great sacrifices for the peace, unity and stability of Nigeria. We however appeal to all our compatriots to continue to put the nation first, and to downplay everything that divides us and embrace that which unites us.”

The party said since democracy is one of the most precious gifts of the nation’s post-independence era, it is imperative for all to continue to embrace this known best form of government and never to do anything that will undermine it.

“We wish all our compatriots a joyous and peaceful celebration.”

•Photo shows Lai Mohammed.