| Nigeria's 49th Independence Day Speech by Priscilla Ikos Usiobaifo |
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This speech was given by Priscilla Ikos Usiobaifo, Program Coordinator of BraveHeart Initiative, at the official ceremony of Nigeria's 49th Independence Day celebration held at Public Field, Igarra, Edo State.
The Executive Chairman Sir, Chairperson Ma, Honourable Members, Our Royal fathers, Distinguished guests, Amiable People of Akoko Edo and My fellow dynamic youths. I welcome you to NIGERIA'S 49TH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION I like to thank the organizing committee for their efforts in putting up this great occasion. I exceptionally commend Our Chairman, Chief J.A Emasealu for his initiatives and laudable development projects aimed at enhancing Akoko Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. My name is Priscilla Ikos Usiobaifo, a beloved daughter of this Local Government. I am the Coordinator of BraveHeart Initiative for Youth & Women. In the spirit of re-branding and as a firm demonstration of our patriotism, we are here to celebrate our achievements as a nation. Today is a day for re-appraisal of our motivations and aspirations as Nigerians. As many will often say, there is nothing to be celebrated in Nigeria; We are dynamic young persons who believe in Nigeria. We are grateful for the opportunities and peace (no matter how little) that abound in our country. We hope to set the pace for the change that we desire for our country by becoming the change agents and change makers of today. We believe that a good today will bring forth a better tomorrow and as well a best future for this great country of ours. On this memorable day (October 1, 2009), we intend to revive the spirit of loyalty, diligence and patriotism in our youths as well as address the most challenging situations that our youth face in Nigeria. As a youth focused non governmental organisation at Akoko Edo Local Government Area, we are empowering and developing young persons with information and skills to make healthy and informed choices. Our goal is to train young persons especially those at the grassroots who face an ever-present risk of social isolation to become legally aware, socially responsible and economically independent in order that thus empowered they will be active in the creation of a better society. The overall objective of BraveHeart Initiative is to improve knowledge and understanding of Sexual and Reproductive Health/Right among rural secondary school students and staff as a means to achieving gender equality and preventing unwanted pregnancies. Since 2002, The BraveHeart Initiative has fostered intensive and collaborative relationships with young persons in this Local Government to effect change in their communities and across their country. Across Akoko Edo Local Government, my team is working to provide Nigerian girls-and their male peers-with the information, skills, and care they need to make a healthy transition to adulthood. Beyond serving our communities, my organisation is also effecting changes at the policy level. I believe in Nigeria. Good people, great nation, dynamic youths. It's my hope that beyond this gathering, young people will begin to engage in innovative thinking and participate in the development process of this country of ours. I look forward to a better Akoko Edo, where peace, unity, progress and faith in God abound. I believe that nothing is impossible to us, if we can only believe and add work and persistence to our beliefs. I love you all. Thank you. |
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