Needless to say, the freedom that we all enjoy today has come as a result of the struggles of many years, and the battles of many men. Our founding fathers that secured our democracy left behind guiding principles in the formation of a new Nigeria. They taught us by their efforts to secure our self-determination as a country, that as one strong and indivisible nation, we can surmount all obstacles, but only when we work together.

Today, I pay homage to the gallant soldiers who have died in the defence of our sovereignty, and the heroes that have worked to maintain our democracy. I pay homage to those that are still on the battlefield today, confronting our enemies to make sure that every first of October, we can still come together to commemorate the independence of our great nation.

Today also, I remember all those who have contributed to the furtherance of the Nigerian project, and those that work today to mould the history that we will someday teach our children. I remember the sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, who wake up every day to play their roles in the fabric of our nationhood.

As I remember all these groups of people, I also remember the Nigerians that are still out there who are faced with one troubling situation or the other. Specifically, I remember the Chibok girls, who as of today, have been in the clutches of the enemy for 170 days. 170 days is 170 days too many. To the family of these girls, please remember: "You are not alone. Nigerians will continue to keep vigil, till our girls are back home"

I urge the Federal Government to be transparent and do everything meaningful and tear down all obstacles to ensure that our girls are brought home safe. I urge all Nigerians, from all walks of life, to keep the demand loud and strong: #BRINGBACKOURGIRLS.

As we come together, to address this issue and many others, we must also remember that we must tackle all our obstacles with the urgency of now. We must not wait or delay, postpone or procrastinate in the name if politics the actualization of any solution that will better our nation. In this regard, I urge all Nigerians, especially those in elected offices to see this Independence Day celebration as a turning point - a pivotal moment when we shall all choose to move our country forward.

I have no doubt that working together across parties and ideologies, across cultures and religions, and across geography and location, Nigeria can become the force in the world that it has always been destined to be.

On behalf of my people in Kwara Central Senatorial District and the good people of Kwara State, I wish you all a happy Independence Day. May the Almighty continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Senator Abubakar Bukola Saraki