Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has said Nigeria’s 66 years of independence and 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule are reasons for Nigerians to remain hopeful about the country’s future.
Oborevwori stated this on Sunday at the 66th Independence Thanksgiving Service held at the Living Faith Church, Ibusa Road, Asaba.
The governor acknowledged that Nigeria had faced challenges since returning to democratic rule but said the country had continued to make progress.
“On May 29 this year, we celebrated 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule. That is something to celebrate and thank God for.
“Yes, there have been bumps and twists along the way, but overall, we are making steady progress, and the future remains promising and exciting,” he said.
Oborevwori called on Nigerians to contribute to the development of the country by showing patriotism, courage, resilience and willingness to make sacrifices for the common good.
He also urged Nigerians to continue praying for peace and prosperity, saying the Church had an important role in sustaining peace and stability in the country.
“Praying for the nation is a powerful investment that pays huge dividends. I urge us, therefore, not to relent in the place of prayer, because men ought always to pray and not to faint,” the governor said.
He said peace in the country was important to the security and wellbeing of individuals and communities.
According to him, the relative peace enjoyed in Delta State was achieved through the contributions of traditional rulers, Presidents-General, community leaders and other stakeholders.
Oborevwori also paid tribute to Nigeria’s founding fathers for their sacrifices and contributions to the country’s independence, urging present and future generations to uphold the values that guided them.
Earlier, the Presiding Pastor of the church, Pastor Samuel Johns, urged Nigerians to take responsibility for nation-building through patriotism, sacrifice and civic participation.
Johns said Nigeria had the potential to overcome its challenges and unlock its place among nations.
He identified meaningful contributions, love for the country and positive impact on communities as responsibilities of citizens, stressing that no nation attained greatness by accident.
The pastor also prayed for wisdom for leaders at all levels to manage the country’s resources responsibly and serve the common good.
The service was attended by the governor’s wife, Tobore Oborevwori; President of the Delta State Customary Court, Justice Catherine Ojugbana-Oritsedere; Leader of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emeka Nwaobi; Deputy Chairman of the APC in Delta State, Elder Moses Iduh; members of the House of Assembly, government officials and traditional rulers, among others.
