The National Chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Ms. Grace Morenike Henry, has marked Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with a powerful message of sacrifice, patriotism, and national unity.
In a deeply moving address, Ms. Henry paid tribute to the countless men and women, past and present who fought tirelessly to secure and preserve Nigeria’s freedom.
“Sixty-five years ago, our beloved nation rose with courage and the spirit of freedom,” she said, opening her address with a call to remembrance.
She emphasized that Nigeria’s independence was not handed down easily, but wrested from colonial rule through resilience and collective effort.
“Our independence was not handed to us lightly,” Ms. Henry declared. “It was earned through unity, faith, and the audacity to believe in our destiny as a free people.”
On behalf of Nigerian military veterans both those still living and those who paid the ultimate price, she reaffirmed their commitment to the nation’s progress and sovereignty.
“I proudly reaffirm that Nigeria is worth every drop of sweat, every act of courage, and every heartbeat that stood firm in her defense,” she said.
Ms. Henry acknowledged the ongoing challenges facing the country, but noted that hardship has never defeated the Nigerian spirit.
“Though challenges remain like most countries of the world, and as we never abandoned our duty posts in the face of adversity, as a nation, we stand firm with hope, patriotism, and a collective resolve to build a greater tomorrow,” she stated.
Her message urged citizens not only to reflect on the past, but to rise to the responsibility of preserving what has been hard-won.
“Our independence reminds us that no obstacle is insurmountable when we are united,” she affirmed.
Calling for peace, respect, and love among Nigerians, Ms. Henry stressed that the future of the nation rests not just in policies, but in the character of its people.
“The true strength of any nation lies in the unity of her people,” she noted. “The green of our flag reminds us of abundance and hope, while the white stands as a symbol of peace and purity of purpose.”
She also used the opportunity to salute Nigeria’s veterans, calling them the “silent foundation of our nation’s stability.”
“Let us renew our vow to uphold justice, service, and sacrifice. Let us also honor our gallant veterans, whose loyalty and labor remain the silent foundation of our nation’s stability,” she said.
Ms. Henry’s leadership at the helm of the Nigerian Legion has been widely regarded as transformative. As the first female National Chairman, she has not only elevated the visibility of veterans’ affairs but also reshaped the narrative around national service and sacrifice.
Her Independence Day message echoed this legacy, balancing reflection with resolve, and honoring the past while inspiring the future.
“May this Independence Day rekindle in every Nigerian a burning passion for progress, a firm commitment to unity, and an enduring pride in our motherland,” she concluded.
With voices like Ms. Grace Henry’s leading from the front, the Nigerian Legion continues to stand as a symbol of loyalty, duty, and unwavering national pride.