Ikosi-Isheri LCDA celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with pupils from all public primary schools across the council area. The event on October 1st, 2025, featured a colorful march pass and cultural displays that brought the community together in a spirit of patriotism and national pride.

The Pupils from various school waved the Nigerian flag and carried banners commemorating the nation’s independence during the march pass. They also performed traditional dances and cultural displays representing Nigeria’s ethnic diversity.

The Mayoress, Princess Samiat Abolanle Bada (MNIM), was represented by her Vice Chairman, Hon. Olayinka Ogunleye.

Hon. Ogunleye said that today is a day to raise flags and voices to celebrate Nigeria at 65. This day is not just a date in history it is a call to renew faith in the country and in ourselves. He noted that Nigeria stands tall not because it has no challenges, but because it has never allowed those challenges to defeat it. That is the true spirit of Nigeria and of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA.

He said that independence must be reflected in the daily lives of the people. It must mean good roads to drive on, clean communities to live in, healthcare that saves lives, schools that give children a future, opportunities that empower youths, and support that protects women and the elderly.

Hon. Ogunleye affirmed the administration’s commitment to translating the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu into reality at the grassroots. The goal is to make Ikosi-Isheri a council where government is present and promises are kept.

He urged everyone not to lose hope, explaining that every great nation has faced trials before triumph. Nigeria will rise, Lagos will shine, and Ikosi-Isheri will prosper.

He called on the youths to channel their energy into creativity rather than violence, encouraged women to continue being the strength of families and communities, asked elders to provide wisdom and guidance, and appealed to all citizens to be patriotic, united, and hopeful.

Hon. Ogunleye concluded by saying that together, the community can light the tunnel until the end is near and make Ikosi-Isheri a model of grassroots transformation. He wished everyone a happy Independence Day.

Following the speech, Princess Samiat Bada expressed her commitment to ensuring that the future leaders of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA grow up with a strong sense of national pride and responsibility.

Mr. Babatunde Shoneye, Education Secretary of Kosofe Local Government Education Authority (LGEA), thanked Princess Samiat Bada and her team for organizing the event. He emphasized the importance of celebrating Independence Day with children, stating that such celebrations help to instill a deep sense of patriotism and national pride from an early age.

Mr. Shoneye highlighted that the younger generation represents the future of Nigeria, and events like this play a crucial role in teaching them about the country’s history, values, and the significance of unity and hard work in nation-building.

Mrs. Modupe Ogungbo-Alimi, Council Manager of Ikosi-Isheri LCDA, encouraged pupils to embrace good behavior, uphold societal values, and focus on their education, reminding them that they are the future leaders of the country.

Pupils expressed their excitement and appreciation. Happiness from Express Primary School said she was happy to celebrate Independence Day with her friends and thanked the council leadership for the opportunity. Abdul Adebayo from Olowo Ira Primary School also thanked the Mayoress and wished his fellow pupils a happy Independence Day.