Jethro Ibileke/Asaba.
As the nation prepares to celebrate its 55th independence anniversary, Governor Ifeanyi Okowa of Delta State has called for collective sacrifice and attitude change by all Nigerians, to move the nation forward.
Governor Okowa made the call Sunday at an inter denominational thanks giving service held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Bishop’s Court, Asaba, the state capital, as part of activities kick-starting the nation’s 55th Independence anniversary celebration.
He said Nigerians need to pray for the nation and make the necessary sacrifice in order for the nation to grow, adding that both leaders and the led have a role to play in ensuring the nations greatness.
“We need to pray for our nation and play our individual roles to move the nation forward. We must play our part and not just to criticise those in authority. If this nation have to move forward, we have to partner among ourselves both as a nation and as individuals. Only through prayers and partnership with God can we move faster,” the governor said, just as he noted that attitudinal change, starting from both the leaders and people was necessary so that the nation can grow.
“We need to have a rethink, make a sacrifice and that sacrifice may be your prayer and we must resolve to play a role by partnership with ourselves and government. As a state, we must realise that we must come back to God and plant our feet on higher ground to meet today’s challenges,”
Governor Okowa reiterated that his administration would remain focused, accountable and do things right so as to make positive change in the state. He further assured that ‘‘it is not going to be business as usual, but by the grace of God despite the dwindling resources we will stay focused and do things aright the best we can.”
He therefore charged all Nigerians to show selfless love to their neighbours especially those in authorities as this was the only way they can jointly tackle the challenges posed by the dwindling oil price.
Earlier, Rev. Fr, Buchi Aninye in his sermon charged Nigerians to be obedient to civil authorities and obey the laws of the land for a better and prosperous nation.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials and dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor, Kingsley Otuaro, Mrs. Joan Mrakpor and Mr. Victor Nwokolo (Members representing Aniocha/Oshimili and Ika Federal Constituencies.)