The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, David Mark, has said that only visionary and credible leadership can steer Nigeria out of its current challenges.
In a statement on Tuesday, the former Senate President urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the past in order to make informed choices in the 2027 general elections.
Mark noted that Nigeria’s six and a half decades of nationhood had been marked by resilience despite daunting challenges, but warned that insecurity, unemployment, and inflation continue to erode citizens’ confidence in governance.
“Our communities are restless under the grip of insecurity. Our youth are losing hope due to unemployment. Inflation has eroded the dignity of honest earnings,” he said.
He called for urgent investment in intelligence gathering, modern technology, and the welfare of security personnel, alongside measures to tackle poverty, injustice, and exclusion.
The former Senate President also stressed the need to revive local industries, support small and medium enterprises, and provide skills development opportunities for young people in technology, agriculture, innovation, and the creative sector.
On agriculture, he urged investment in storage systems and fair distribution channels to ensure local produce meets domestic demand before export.
Mark further called for unity and sacrifice, saying the spirit that won Nigeria independence in 1960 should inspire current efforts to rebuild the country.
“At 65, our burdens are real, but so is our resilience. Our hope must outweigh our despair, and our strength must carry us forward,” he added.
Independence Day: Nigeria needs credible leadership to overcome challenges – David Mark