AGAINST rising insurgent activities in the North-East, President Goodluck Jonathan, on Sunday, assured that the country will be liberated from its present challenges, as he pointed out that other nations went through even worse situations in their history.
Speaking at an interdenominational service to round off the Centenary celebration of the country, at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, he asked Nigerians to show love, “even where it hurts most,” adding that he was confident that “Nigeria has a bright future that the children will be proud of.”
The president added that “the road has been rough, the challenges real, but with God on our side, the future is sure and Nigeria will surely be liberated by God’s grace.
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“Few days ago, all our leaders gathered and our nation honoured them for their labour of love. I see a new Nigeria filled with love. I see a new Nigeria with determination.
“I appeal to all of us to show love to one another more than ever before, regardless of tribe, religion or race. Let us show love, even when it hurts most.
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“We have our challenges but definitely, we have more opportunities in this country than challenges. Our challenges are very ephemeral. Other countries have passed through even more difficult challenges.”
Jonathan defended the celebration of the centenary, saying if other countries were celebrating less important issues, such as 200 years of ending wars by Sweden, Nigeria had every reason to celebrate and thank God for His mercies upon the country.
In his message on the occasion, the retired Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, His Eminence, Sunday Ola Makinde, implored the Federal Government to expose the sources of funds of the Boko Haram insurgents.
“Without enemies within, enemies without cannot strike. Wherever they are, God will expose them, wherever they are, God will wage war against those waging war against Nigeria,” he said.
Also speaking, former head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, noted that the reconciliation achieved after the Nigeria Civil War was second to none.
He thanked all those who laid down their lives to keep Nigeria one, which made it possible for the country to celebrate its centenary.
Notable personalities at the event were the wife of the president, Patience; Chief Ernest Shonekan, Chief Tony Anenih, Honourable Emeka Ihedioha, Governor Theodore Orji of Abia State, service chiefs, among others.
