By NEWSCOUNT Desk
President of the Senate, Godswill Obot Akpabio, has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful about the future of the country and reject tribalism, bitterness and division, stressing the need for greater unity, sacrifice and commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
Akpabio made the call at an inter-denominational church service held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Speaking on the theme, “Keeping Faith with Nigeria,” the Senate President challenged Nigerians to look beyond the country’s present difficulties and work towards a nation where peace, prosperity and unity prevail.
Drawing from the biblical question, “What seest thou?” in the Book of Zechariah, Akpabio said Nigerians should reflect on the kind of country they want to leave behind for future generations.
He said he envisaged a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria where the country’s diversity would remain a source of strength and every citizen could aspire to a better future.
According to him, the responsibility of building the Nigeria of the future rests on the present generation, particularly as children look up to their elders for examples of leadership and responsible citizenship.
Akpabio said the legacy Nigerians leave behind should not be defined by tribalism, bitterness and division, but by courage, unity, sacrifice and service to the nation.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule since the restoration of democratic governance in 1999, describing it as an achievement that should be appreciated while stressing the need to strengthen the country’s democratic institutions.
The Senate President said credible elections, strong institutions and accountable leadership were essential to sustaining democratic governance.
On the economy, Akpabio acknowledged the difficulties faced by many Nigerians following the reforms introduced by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said the reforms had required difficult decisions and sacrifices, but expressed the view that the focus should remain on ensuring that they deliver greater opportunities, economic stability and improved living conditions for Nigerians.
Akpabio called on citizens to show greater concern for the suffering of fellow Nigerians and to play their part in overcoming the challenges confronting the country.
He urged Nigerians to reject division and bitterness and renew their commitment to the wellbeing of the nation as the country prepares to mark another Independence anniversary.
“With God on our side and with our collective resolve, I believe we can overcome the challenges before us and leave behind a stronger, more peaceful and prosperous nation for generations to come,” he said.
