By Judd Saul
As Nigeria celebrates its independence, I want to express my love for its people and my sincere hope for its future. Nigeria is for the people who love Nigeria—those who are willing to serve its people, protect their neighbors, and build something that will last beyond their own lifetime. That love must be greater than ethnic divisions, political loyalties, or the pursuit of personal gain.
As an American celebrating our nation’s 250th anniversary this year, I am reminded that freedom carries responsibility. No country is perfect, including my own. But justice, peace, and the opportunity to build a better life should be shared by all people. They should never be privileges reserved for the powerful, the wealthy, or the well-connected. Every Nigerian deserves to live in safety, worship freely, provide for a family, and look toward tomorrow with hope.
I want to see a prosperous Nigeria. I want to see children grow up with opportunities instead of fear, families thrive through honest work, and communities live together in peace. I believe this can happen. Nigeria’s future does not have to be defined by the suffering and divisions of its past.
My hope is that Nigerians, especially those entrusted with leadership, will choose lasting prosperity over short-term gains. The question should not simply be, “What can I gain today?” but, “What kind of country am I leaving for my children and grandchildren?” A nation’s future is strengthened every time someone chooses integrity over corruption, service over selfishness, and justice over favoritism.
My work in Nigeria is rooted in my Christian faith and my love for its people. I pray for a Nigeria where every person’s dignity is respected and every community has a place in the nation’s future. A peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria is possible—and it is worth building for generations to come.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria. May God bless your people and guide your future!
Judd Saul
Founder, Equipping the Persecuted and TruthNigeria
