The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun has said that the journey of Nigeria's nationhood in the last 63 years comes with an abundance of reasons for all living Nigerians to appreciate the rare grace that Almighty God bestowed on them which had made it possible to overcome several challenges that threatened the nation's oneness.

Governor Abiodun made this known at an interdenominational service held at the Cathedral of St. Peter's (Anglican) Ake, Abeokuta to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of Nigeria's independence.

 Represented by the State Head of Service, Mr. Kolawole Fagbohun, Governor Abiodun, said Nigeria as a nation encountered various kinds of challenges such as the ethnically coloured coup of January 1966, civil war, balkanization of the economy that have set the nation back in all areas of development and growth which have been inherited by successive civil administrations.

"In all these, we are very lucky and thankful that the prayers of our religious leaders, who have consistently interfaced with the rest of us have continued to keep us going as an indivisible entity", the Gov. said.

According to him, the independence must be a reminder for all citizens of Ogun State, of the leading roles played by the heroes of state in the formation and survival of Nigeria in the pre-independence and post-independence eras, adding that the Late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo was one of the leading lights in the struggle for self-rule and independence of Nigeria in the early 20th century as well as other compatriots from the State.

"These indelible legacies of patriotism and selflessness have formed the core of our guiding principles as a government as we continue to administer the state in the direction of God and in the superior interests of our people because we are absolutely convinced that our administration is a product of the grace and favour of the Almighty God. We have allowed him and only him to direct our path to the best of our human ability", Gov Abiodun stated.

He therefore promised never to deviate from the divine direction till the end of his tenure and build together the sustainable future that is desirable with the citizens' prayers and cooperation.

Earlier, the Bishop of Lagos Episcopal and Remo Diocese, Anglican Communion, Archbishop Michael Fape, in his sermon at the service titled "The fear of God enables good governance" with scriptural reference from the book of the Ecclesiastes chapter 12 and verses 13-14, said the fear of the Lord is the basic requirement for successful governance, and urged the people in authority to fear God and shun corruption which militates against the country's progress and development.