Gov. Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara State on Thursday expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome the myriad of economic, social and security problems confronting it and be great again.

The governor said this in Ilorin in his 55th Independence Anniversary Message to the people of the state.

According to him, Nigeria has a lot to celebrate after 55 years of independence despite the challenges it is facing.

He added that "my conviction is driven not by blind hope, my optimism is based on confidence in the indomitable Nigerian spirit, our limitless national endowments and our current leadership drive and capacity to positively change our country.

"However, we can only achieve these if we stand as one and defy the forces that threaten to divide us for selfish benefits.

"We must unite behind our collective aspirations for greatness, our desire for a better country and support our leaders at all levels."

Ahmed said that in spite of this optimism, the state government was forced to cancel this year's independence anniversary celebration due to unfavourable security reports.

He identified some of the problems confronting Nigeria today to include violence, youth unemployment and economic challenges.

He, however, assured the people of the state that his administration remained committed to infrastructure development, investment promotion and entrepreneurship promotion for youths.

"We will continue to use all available resources at our disposal to minister effectively to the needs and aspirations of the people," he added. (NAN)