On the occasion of Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary, Amb. Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the Consul General of Nigeria in Johannesburg, South Africa, has expressed the Federal Government's commitment to the welfare and safety of Nigerians living in Southern Africa. In her goodwill message, Okey-Uche addressed pressing issues such as passport challenges and the threat of xenophobic attacks that have been a source of concern for the Nigerian community in the region.

Okey-Uche emphasized that the Consulate is acutely aware of the difficulties many Nigerians face, particularly regarding passport services and safety. "We are not sleeping over this matter. We are continuing to demand that the concerns before us receive the attention they deserve, and efforts are ongoing to push for urgent practical interventions," she stated. This assurance comes at a time when many Nigerians abroad are feeling vulnerable due to rising xenophobic sentiments.

The Consul General highlighted the personal stakes involved, noting that behind every passport issue or safety concern is a Nigerian with family, business, or personal obligations. "Fellow citizens, we hear you. The Federal Government hears you. Your Diplomatic Missions hear you, and there is genuine concern about the difficulties confronting our people," she affirmed.

Okey-Uche encouraged Nigerians in South Africa, Eswatini, and Lesotho to remain hopeful and constructive, urging them to uphold the laws of their host countries while representing Nigeria with dignity. "As Nigerians living abroad, we also carry a very important responsibility. Wherever we live, we remain representatives of our great nation," she added.

Reflecting on Nigeria's journey since independence, Okey-Uche described the 66th anniversary as a significant milestone. She called on Nigerians to remember their roots and the sacrifices made by those who built the nation. "Independence is more than a date on the calendar. It is a reminder of our collective identity, our shared heritage and our responsibility to future generations," she remarked.

The Consul General acknowledged the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, recognizing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Nigeria. She expressed optimism about ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and improving the quality of life for citizens.

Okey-Uche concluded her message by highlighting the resilience of the Nigerian people, stating, "Nigeria is rising. Nigeria remains a great country, with an even greater future." She urged citizens to choose hope, unity, and patriotism as they navigate the challenges they face.

In a related Independence Day message, Ezeanozie Eleberi, National Secretary of the Igbo Union South Africa, called for national unity among Nigerians in the diaspora. He stressed the importance of collaboration across regions and interests to achieve national leadership and progress. Eleberi encouraged Nigerians to project a positive image of the country while being law-abiding in their host communities.