Nigeria at 65: Abia Governor urges Nigerians to be resolute

Stephanie Clems, Umuahia

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti has urged Nigerians citizens to keep hope alive even in the face of economic challenges in the country.

Governor Otti made this call during the Independence Day Anniversary parade ceremony at Government House, Umuahia.

He encouraged Nigerians to keep striving for the better as well as remain steadfast despite hard times .

“We may not have been where we want to be as a country, but the truth is that we are certainly not where we used to be.

“So, while we strive and work hard to get to that ultimate destination, none of us should lose hope as the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.

“Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. So, I challenge our people not to give up, because the best is yet to come,” Gov. Otti stated.

He congratulated the people of Nigeria on the occasion of the 65th independence anniversary, while thanking all those who had contributed to the country’s journey thus far, adding that their sacrifices were acknowledged.

The Governor used the opportunity to highlight the progress made in Abia State since he came on board 28 months ago and emphasised the importance of security and enjoined the masses to take an active role in reporting suspicious activities to the authorities to sustain security in the state.

“If you look around the state, you’ll definitely agree with us that our schools are wearing new looks, and more teachers have been deployed to the schools and our hospitals are being made to function.

“If you see something, say something, call the Nigerian police, the DSS, the Army, just call the security agencies or call me. We don’t sleep. And the reason we don’t sleep is so that you can sleep.”I can assure you that the service commanders that God blessed us with in the State are very hardworking and dedicated people.

The State Chief Executive thanked Abians for believing in him and the State and assured them that the government would continue to work for them and with them.

He equally commended the gallant Police officers for their wonderful parade performance and requested for continued support of the security agencies, saying that it would boost their morale and dedication to duty.

The Independence Day ceremony has in attendance the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Speaker Abia State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council and service commanders.