Vice-Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 polls, Mr. Peter Obi, on Monday, thanked Almighty God for allowing the country to survive in spite great odds.

He, in a message to mark the country’s 59th Independence Anniversary, describing today’s event as “another opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on why the country is going through tough times.”

The former Anambra State Governor described as sad, a situation where Nigeria is lagging behind in all indices of development as if the rest of the world has left her behind. He therefore called on Nigerians to take the opportunity and think positively about their country and how to set her on her feet again.

In Ibadan, Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, s felicitated with the people of the state and Nigerians in general on the occasion of the nation’s 59th independence anniversary.

Makinde, in a message to the good people of Oyo State and his countrymen at large, called for renewed patriotism, perseverance and prayers to enable the country to wade through the myriads of socio-economic challenges currently facing the people.

“I felicitate with our countrymen on the occasion of Nigeria’s 59th independence anniversary. As you all can see, the nation is wading through some socio-economic issues, which demand us to remain committed to the goal of nation-building. With perseverance and the never-say-die instinct of Nigerians, we will get to our goal of a great country, successfully,” the Governor said.

He assured the people of Oyo State to continue to stand with his government in its avowed determination to deliver the good and uplift the standards of living in the Pacesetter state.

The Governor further said: “As far as Oyo state is concerned, we are determined to deliver on our promises. While we appreciate the reception given to our government thus far, let me reassure our people that the hope and faith they invested in us will not be squandered.

“We will ensure that the Omitutun (fresh showers), which characterised our campaign, will bring forth the goodness everyone desires. We are determined to turn Oyo State to a goldmine for investors, haven for good health, secured living and a bastion of quality education.

“We are already turning around the sad memories from our education, health and social sectors and our people can only look forward to more.”