TO come out of Nigeria’s present predicaments and numerous challenges, Governor Simon Bako Lalong has tasked Nigerians to be Godly rather than continue to act with religious and ethnic sentiments.
The Governor also said all that is required in the country is for Nigerians to work together in unity, tolerance, sincerity, loyalty and patriotism to make sure the nation lives up to its God-given potentials.
Lalong threw the challenge Sunday, during an interdenominational Church service to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence Day Anniversary at Government House Chapel Rayfield, Jos.
He said for far too long Nigerians have focused on their differences and weaknesses, trivialising and ignoring their strengths and prospects of attaining a greater nation like their counterparts in the developed world.
According to the Governor, “Nigeria is blessed with human and natural resources, yet, We seem to dissipate so much energy on defining people based on their religion, tribe, ethnicity, and even political orientation completely neglecting their capacities, gifts, talents, and willingness to serve humanity”.
“Nigerians cannot embrace corruption, despise hard work, shun the rule of law, champion nepotism and bigotry, act selfishly, oppress one another especially the vulnerable and expect to build a great nation”.
Rather, he advised that as a nation that is highly religious, people should stop being religious, start being godly and go back to loving one another and putting general interest above persons.
He said Nigerians should take a cue from great nations who have embraced diversity, tolerance, excellence, good work ethics, and a national philosophy based on honesty, reward for hard work and punishment for deviance as major parameters for attaining national development.
He advised that if the country, which is rated as one of the leading economies in Africa, is to make headway to emerge strong and prosperous, it must imbibe good governance, respect for human rights and zero tolerance for corruption and indiscipline.
In a sermon, Deputy Chaplain of Plateau Government House Chapel, Rev. Ezekiel Dewan urged Nigerians to devote more time to pray for the country to surmount its current challenges rather than advocating for the nations disintegration.
He advised Nigerians not to give up, always declare positive things and remember to pray for their leaders just as God admonishes Christians in the Holy Bible.
Goodwill messages centred on hope for Nigeria were given by various stakeholders including the State Joint Traditional Council, GOC 3rd Armoured Division and Operation Safe Haven.
Special prayers were offered at the church service for Plateau State and the country amidst song ministrations by various individuals and groups.
