As the nation marks its 61st independence anniversary today, Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari has urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in their belief in a strong and united Nigeria.
In a statement Thursday by his spokesman, Abdu Labaran Malumfashi, Masari observed that no nation can achieve its goals if citizens are constantly in conflict with one another on account of divergent tendencies.
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He said: “For Nigeria to develop into the country of our dream, we should make no room for tendencies that will exploit our fault lines and pitch one section against another in a needless confrontation.
“As the nation ages, our attitude should reflect the journey which has brought us this far together, and reason behind the journey.”
Masari expressed worry over citizens’ tendency to regard the travails of a section of the country that is not theirs with lackadaisical attitude, saying that such attitude is not helpful to the collective interest of the nation.
“In the race towards building a better, stronger and united nation, we should not allow divisive sentiments to put us asunder.
“We would do well to realise that whatever affects one part of Nigeria affects all of Nigeria, and it is in the interest of us all to collectively face any challenge affecting a section of the country, as doing otherwise will only give room for the adversity to envelope the whole country.
“Let us also put aside our different tongues and creeds and confront our challenges as Nigerians” he said.
He also called for more support for President Muhammadu Buhari to enable him succeed in repositioning the country towards the path of sustainable development.
He said: “The president needed our sustained commitment and prayers to enable him successfully continue in the path he has started to steer the nation through the numerous challenges confronting, and even threatening, its corporate existence.”
Masari also urged Nigerians to support and appreciate security agencies in their efforts to bring an end to the various security challenges confronting the country.
