Umuahia – Nigeria will not disintegrate, in spite of the current challenges facing the nation, Gov. Theodore Orji of Abia said on Sunday.
Orji said this at an inter-denominational church service organised by the state government as part of the activities marking the country’s 52nd independence anniversary.
“Nigerians should be hopeful that Nigeria will continue to be one, because God loves us.''
He said that the lessons of the civil war had further helped to unite the country and ensure its continued existence as an indivisible entity.
“The war would have divided us; those who experienced the war are working hard to ensure that the country remains united.
“Nigeria's unity is irrevocable,'' he said, and commended the founding fathers of the country for working tirelessly to keep Nigeria one.
Orji expressed confidence that the myriad of problems confronting the nation were not permanent and would soon pass away.
He implored Nigerians to contribute their quota toward nation building, stressing Nigeria needed moral rejuvenation.
“If we can achieve positive change in our homes, then Nigeria and the world will be a better place for us to live in.''
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to making positive change in the state but called for the support of all and sundry.
“No single individual can solve all the problems in the world but we should, in our individual capacities, strive to bring about a positive change.
“My government is sincere and the power you have given to me will never intoxicate me.''
In a sermon at the service, the state Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Bishop Goddy Okafor, urged Nigerians “not to despise our leaders”.
Okafor also admonished politicians not to fight the man that gave them access to power.
''People should not fight the fingers that feed them.
''Let us honour our leaders, they are given to us by God,'' he said, adding that Nigerians should also pray for the nation's leaders.
He urged those, ''raised by God,'' to use their positions to help humanity rather than seek personal aggrandisement.
“Nigeria is in need of men who are raised by God, like David of old, to take the people out of penury, lack and want.''
The prayers and intercessions were made for the nation, the political leaders as well as the security agencies during the service. (NAN)
