Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has used the occasion of the 65th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria to urge the citizens not to give up in the face of economic challenges bedevilling the country.
Governor Otti was speaking during the Independence Day Anniversary parade ceremony held at Government House Umuahia. He encouraged Nigerians to keep striving for the better as well as remain resolute despite the challenges.
“We may not have been where we want to be as a country, but the truth is that we are certainly not where we used to be.
“So, while we strive and work hard to get to that ultimate destination, none of us should lose hope as the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step.
“Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. So, I challenge our people not to give up, because the best is yet to come,” Gov. Otti stated.
Governor Otti congratulated the people of Nigeria on the occasion of the 65th independence anniversary, while thanking all those who have contributed to the country’s journey so far, adding that their sacrifices are acknowledged.
The Governor used the opportunity to highlight the progress made in Abia State since he came on board 28 months ago and emphasised the importance of security, urging the citizenry to take an active role in reporting suspicious activities to the authorities to sustain security in the State.
“If you look around the State, you’ll definitely agree with us that our schools are wearing new looks, and more teachers have been deployed to the schools and our hospitals are being functionalised.
“If you see something, say something, call the Nigerian police, the DSS, the Army, just call the security agencies or call me. We don’t sleep. And the reason we don’t sleep is so that you can sleep.
“I can assure you that the service commanders that God blessed us with in the State are very hardworking and dedicated people.
The State Chief Executive thanked Abians for believing in him and the State and assured them that the government would continue to work for them and with them.
He equally commended the gallant Police officers for their wonderful parade performance and enjoined the citizenry to continue to support the security agencies, saying that it would boost their morale and dedication to duty.
The Independence Day ceremony which featured a parade by the officers and men of the Nigerian Police, was attended by the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, the Speaker Abia State House of Assembly, members of the State Executive Council, service commanders, Chairman, Abia State Council of Traditional Rulers Eze Linus Nto Mbah and a host of dignitaries.
