As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Head of the Due Process and Public Procurement Bureau, Abia State, Dr. Oluebube A. Chukwu, has called on leaders at all levels to embrace sincerity, patriotism, and people-focused reforms in addressing the nation’s challenges.Speaking with journalists in Umuahia during the anniversary commemoration, Dr. Chukwu congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians, describing the milestone as “65 years of endurance, unity, and unwavering hope despite daunting trials.”He noted, however, that the celebration comes amid inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and the rising cost of living triggered by fuel subsidy removal, stressing that these issues require urgent policies that place citizens’ welfare above politics.The Isuochi-born technocrat praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, for implementing people-centered policies and projects that have restored hope in governance. He urged Abians to sustain their support for the governor to consolidate on the gains of his administration in the past 29 months.“This anniversary should go beyond celebration; it should be a time of sober reflection,” Dr. Chukwu said. “The removal of fuel subsidy, the dwindling value of the naira, and soaring food prices have left millions of Nigerians, especially women and youths, vulnerable. Leaders must prioritize welfare, accountability, and inclusive governance for independence to have real meaning for ordinary citizens.”As founder of the Oluebube Chukwu Foundation, he emphasized that women and youths—Nigeria’s largest demographic—must be at the centre of welfare and empowerment initiatives, warning that their neglect could worsen inequality and hinder national growth.Dr. Chukwu also urged the Federal Government to intensify the fight against insecurity, strengthen democratic institutions, and entrench transparent procurement systems to rebuild public trust.While calling on Nigerians to remain hopeful, resilient, and prayerful, he expressed optimism that with collective will and responsible leadership, the nation would overcome its present economic and social challenges and take its place among the world’s leading nations.