Editor,
 
Please allow me space in your widely read newspaper to dilate on a few points mentioned by His Excellency the president in his speech during the 45th Independent Anniversary.
 
It is true that 18th February 1965 was an important day in the history of The Gambia and should always be remembered as a former British colony, now widely referred to as the Smiling Coast of Africa, and a haven for investors and visitors. The day is truly symbolic and historic in the sense that it was the day when the country broke the chains of imperialism, thereby ushering in self-rule and setting the pace for political and socio-economic development of The Gambia for future generations. The day creates a new nation capable of running and administering its own affairs distinct from both international and external meddling.
 
Patriotism and honesty is indeed the backbone of sustainable development, to achieve this as our leader said, the habit of patriotism and honesty needs to be inculcated, thereby putting and conceding our nations interest first before self. Hard work and perseverance also need to be demonstrated in all of our dealings. Since independence The Gambia has undergone development especially in the past 15 years. Rapid improvement has been realised in all sectors of the Gambian economy ranging from health, education, agriculture, infrastructure, and energy etc. University, which was a long-standing dream for Gambian has been brought to our doorstep and every year hundreds of Gambians graduate from it. 
 
The Gambia has indeed become a modern country to be reckoned with, today, at least 75% of the big cities and towns are electrified . However, the youths of today constitute the leaders of tomorrow and as well hopes for the future, parents and teachers should strive to inculcate the values and importance of patriotism and honesty in them for the betterment of The Gambia and the world at large.
 
May Allah the Almighty continue to guide President Jammeh and protect him in his endeavours and also our beloved nation The Gambia, Amen.