Says true independence meaningless without security, equity, and shared prosperity
Kaduna, October 1, 2026 — As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate in Kaduna State, Hon. Usman Shehu Bawa (ABG), has called on citizens to engage in deep reflection and rethink the nation’s collective journey, declaring that the founding dream of a nation where no citizen is left behind remains unfulfilled for many Nigerians, particularly residents of Kaduna State.
In a message titled “A Time for Deep Reflection and Rethinking,” issued on Thursday to commemorate the milestone, Bawa noted that while the nation has demonstrated remarkable resilience, rich diversity, and unbroken hope over the past 66 years, it is imperative to soberly assess the challenges ahead.
“Sixty-six years ago, our founding fathers envisioned a nation where no one is oppressed and no citizen is left behind. While that founding dream remains valid and alive, we must acknowledge with regret that it is yet to be fully realized for the majority of Nigerians, especially residents of Kaduna State,” he said.
The PDP gubernatorial candidate stressed that true independence carries little meaning if citizens cannot sleep with both eyes closed, lamenting that from Sanga to Birnin Gwari and from Giwa to Lere, communities face unprecedented security challenges that disrupt everyday life and rural livelihoods.
“Farmers fear going to their fields, and parents fear sending their children to school. Security is not a political bargaining chip; it is a fundamental human right,” Bawa declared, while acknowledging the efforts of the armed forces. He, however, insisted that sustainably overcoming security threats requires genuine partnership, institutional strengthening, proactive approaches, and the empowerment of traditional institutions, community leaders, and security agencies.
Bawa also drew attention to the urgent need for systemic investment in human capital, calling for an overhaul of the health system to guarantee accessible care for every family and the revitalization of public education so that young people can compete globally and the nation can harness its demographic dividends.
On the economy, he maintained that economic progress cannot be separated from human dignity, noting that true prosperity requires an environment where small businesses flourish, agricultural value chains are protected, and jobs are created to lift families out of poverty.
Unveiling the core of his leadership vision, Bawa said it centers on the fair and equitable distribution of the state’s commonwealth across all zones. “The wealth and resources of our state belong equally to every resident, regardless of whether they reside in Zone 1, Zone 2, or Zone 3,” he stated.
He pledged that under his P.E.O.P.L.E Agenda, development projects, public appointments, educational support, and agricultural empowerment would reach all 23 Local Government Areas of the state, vowing that no community, ward, or demographic would be marginalized.
“A united Kaduna State must be a secure, educated, healthy, and prosperous state for all. As we celebrate this 66th anniversary, let us renew our sacred pledge to unity, peace, and mutual respect across every ethnic and religious divide,” he urged.
Bawa extended warm congratulations to the President, the Government and people of Kaduna State, and all Nigerians on the milestone, praying for God’s blessings upon the state and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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