The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Hon. Simon Bako Lalong restated his commitment to Plateau as his Government has continued in restoring the State to its status as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

The Governor disclosed this in his address at the 62nd Independence Day celebration at the Rwang Pam Stadium in Jos, Plateau State.

He stated that “our Rescue Administration can proudly boast of being one of the few across the country to vigorously pursue the completion of abandoned and inherited projects started by previous administrations including Government of a different political party. Rather than allow the common patrimony of Plateau people to rot away under the guise of political ego, we vowed to complete many of the abandoned projects that we inherited for the benefit of our people.”

While paying special tribute to those who fought for independence, those who nurtured it, and all those who are doing their best to sustain it, Lalong urged all citizens to continue to do their best to ensure that the sacrifices of these men, women, youths, children and people of various backgrounds do not go in vain.

He added that “Our diversity which in itself is a major resource has also put demands on managing our endowments to the point that many question whether it is a blessing or a curse.”

“However, we should never forget that Nigeria’s diversity is in its greatest strength and not its weakness. Therefore, we should devote more time, energy and resources on things that unite us than our differences of origin which in most cases we have no control over.”

Governor Simon Lalong described this years celebration as nostalgic for him as it is the last time he will be addressing the good people of plateau as their governor while appreciating all citizens for their support and collaboration towards the restoration of peace and security in Plateau State over the years.

He therefore advised all Plateau people and citizens to ensure they chose right the next leaders that will come on board, calling on all politicians to put the general interest above their personal or party interests before, during and after the elections.

“This year’s independence celebrations come at the time when political activities have fully kicked off ahead of the 2023 general elections. It is a time when politicians take to the stage to sell their candidates and campaign for the votes of the electorate. It is equally the time when citizens exercise their power through the ballot to decide who governs them. I urge our citizens to ensure they actively participate in this process in order to determine their destiny. Staying aloof will not yield any positive results but only lead to the emergence of leaders that may not be the best for the polity.”

Lalong also urged everyone “to reflect on the role that each of us must continue to play towards ensuring that we consolidate on the peace, security, unity and development of our dear State and Nigeria at large.”

“When we all perform our responsibilities, then we can be sure of a great nation that we all yearn for.”