Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has urged Nigerians to work together to sustain peace, unity, and national development. He made the call in a goodwill message delivered by the Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elbert Ayambem, at an interdenominational thanksgiving service held in Calabar to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. The service was held at the Christian Central Chapel International, Faith Mansion World Centre, City of Testimonies, 8 Miles, Calabar.
Otu emphasized that nation-building required a shared sense of responsibility and renewed commitment to peaceful coexistence. He urged Nigerians to reject violence, respect the rule of law, and remain committed to the development of the country. The governor described the Independence anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on the vision and sacrifices of Nigerians who laid the foundation for the country’s independence, while also appreciating God for sustaining the nation.
According to Otu, the significance of Independence Day goes beyond commemorating a historical event, as it also reminds citizens of their responsibility to contribute to the development of Nigeria. He acknowledged the challenges Nigeria had faced since independence in 1960 but noted that Nigerians had continued to demonstrate resilience, enterprise, and faith in the country’s future.
The governor urged citizens to view the country’s ethnic, linguistic, and religious diversity as a source of strength rather than division. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Cross Riverians through expanded opportunities for young people, stronger education and healthcare systems, support for businesses and enterprises, improved infrastructure, and increased investment.
Under the administration’s People First Agenda, Otu said the government would continue working towards creating a state where citizens could live peacefully, pursue their livelihoods with dignity, and approach the future with confidence. However, he stressed that the government could not achieve the objectives alone, calling for the active participation of religious institutions, traditional rulers, the private sector, civil society organisations, youths, and other citizens.
Archbishop Emmah Gospel Isong, Founder of Christian Central Chapel International, urged Nigerians to appreciate the blessings of the past and draw lessons and hope from them in confronting present challenges. He cautioned politicians against making statements capable of promoting disunity, hatred, and tribalism, particularly as political activities increase ahead of future elections.
The thanksgiving service was attended by dignitaries, including the Chief Judge of Cross River State, Justice Akon Ikpeme, service commanders, leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria and Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, government officials, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries. Special prayers were offered for President Tinubu, state governors, the various arms of government, national unity, security, and prosperity, as well as the restoration and development of Cross River State.
Key points
- Otu urges Nigerians to sustain peace, unity for nation-building
- Governor reaffirms administration’s commitment to improving Cross Riverians’ welfare
- Archbishop Isong cautions politicians against promoting disunity, hatred, and tribalism
