Governor Simon Lalong with his wife and a cross section of dignitaries at the interdenominational service to mark 2021 democracy day. (Credit : Maria-Therese)
By Marie-Therese Nanlong
Jos – Despite the many challenges that Nigeria is going through, Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong said he is optimistic that the country and its citizens will come out stronger.
His confidence, he stated was based on the fact that “We have passed through such difficult times in the past and we came out stronger” hence, he has no doubt that “we shall overcome this phase of our national history that is characterized by insecurity and economic challenges that are making it difficult to provide services to our people.
The Governor spoke on Sunday during the 2021 Democracy Day inter-denominational Church service held at the Government House Chapel, Rayfield, Jos.
The Governor noted the Democracy Day is an occasion Nigerians should cherish and use to rebuild confidence and patriotism in country as the task of building the nation is a collective one which everyone must partake in and assured his administration will continue to do its best to foster peaceful coexistence among all citizens.
According to him, “We are grateful to God for the privilege to mark another Democracy Day since the Federal Government moved the commemoration of the return to democracy in Nigeria from 29th May to June 12.
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“This inter-denominational Church Service therefore affords us the opportunity to pause and reflect on the goodness of God to Nigeria and Plateau State particularly in the last 22 years since Nigeria returned to democratic rule.
“I will like to appeal to our citizens to join hands in working for the unity, peace and progress of Nigeria and Plateau State even in the face of daunting challenges. It is important for all of us to realise that without a nation, the freedoms we enjoy to even practice our democratic rights will be unavailable.
“Therefore, we cannot tear down the nation through negative rhetoric or supporting individuals or groups who take joy in running down Nigeria’s sovereignty and discrediting its leaders. Of course, we have the right to criticize our leaders and call them to account, but such should not be at the detriment of the corporate existence of the country.
“I have no doubt that we shall overcome this phase of our national history that is characterized by insecurity and economic challenges that are making it difficult to provide services to our people. We have passed through such difficult times in the past and we came out stronger.”
State Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Rev. Fr. Polycarb Lubo in a goodwill message said the 22 years of unbroken democracy has brought about many opportunities for popular participation and contribution to good governance over the years.
He however asked for more efforts to address issues of poverty, inequality, insecurity and lack of employment which is making governance more challenging.
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Meanwhile, Guest Preacher and Executive Secretary Christian Pilgrims Commission Rev. Yakubu Pam urged Nigerians to follow the examples of Christ and not lose hope in the face of today’s difficulties.
Speaking on the topic, “Grace” and taking his text from the Bible book of Mathew 26:36-46, he said Nigeria will continue to experience divine protection and deliverance through its most difficult challenges.
He referred to the pain and trauma that Jesus faced on his way to the cross of Calvary to redeem mankind from sin, saying such fear did not stop him from fulfilling his mission.
