Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has charged Nigerians to continue to preach messages of hope, love and forgiveness, especially in times of strife and division.
Governor Abiodun, made the call during the Special Jumat Service, to mark the 64th National Day celebration of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, saying the collective faith in God and undying hope for a brighter future have kept Nigerians strong, as well as resilient.
"As we gathered all over the country to celebrate with this special Jumat service, it is important for us to reflect on how far we have come as a people and more significantly, how much more we can achieve by aligning our efforts with the principles of peace, unity and justice, values deeply embedded in Islam", he said.
The Governor, represented by his deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, noted that the Special Jumat service was an opportunity to offer thanks for the progress the country had made and pray for intervention in areas the nation still was encountering challenges, informing that it was key to remember the importance of peace in nation building.
Abiodun stressed that under his leadership, the state had witnessed significant strides in infrastructural development, improved security and food initiatives, which he noted, had empowered farmers, to improve agricultural productivity in the state.
He added that his administration focused on job creation through various empowerment programmes and industrialisation efforts, which had in no small measure, provided employment opportunities for the youths.
Governor Abiodun pointed out that these achievements reflected on his commitment to ensuring that the state remains a vital player in Nigeria's journey towards sustainable growth and national prosperity, charging Nigerians to pray for guidance in their decision making, as well as the enactment of policies and programmes that would engender overall benefits to the nation.
Earlier in his sermon, Mufasir of Egbaland, Alhaji Taofeek Amolegbe, said life was full challenges, while efforts to face and conquer them would lead to independence, attributing the nation's major challenge to insecurity.
While stressing the need for more peaceful co-existence, love and unity among Nigerians, he admonished the leaders and citizens to always reflect on the wordings of the national anthem, particularly 'in brotherhood we stand and that truth and justice reign'.
In their separate remarks, The Olu of Ilaro and the Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, represented by the Adokun of Igan Okoto, Oba Mukaila Salako and the Akarigbo of Remoland, Oba Babatunde Ajayi, represented by the Onirolu of Irolu, Oba Sikirulai Adeyiga, congratulated the state and national governments on the 64th national day celebration, saying attaining independence was not easy, considering the factors surrounding it.
They appreciated the efforts of heroes who fought for independence, calling on government to continue its contribution to nation building and initiate policies that would alleviate the sufferings of the citizens.
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