The Governor of
Delta, Senator (Dr.) Ifeanyi Okowa has urged Nigerians to rekindle hope in the
nation as they celebrate its 59th Independence anniversary.
He made the
call on Tuesday at the celebration in Asaba.
According to
the governor, all over the world, countries are facing different challenges; we
should, therefore, face these challenges squarely and not allow them to defeat us
as people.
He said: “Let us
rekindle our hope, redouble our fervent prayers and supplication to God to see
us through the numerous trials and unite us more than ever before.
"Our
declarations should be positive both for leaders and the country; that way, we
will have positive confirmation that the heavenly Father will grant our
prayers.
“I appeal to
all Deltans and indeed, all Nigerians, to rekindle their faith in a united
country and in the continuous protection of democracy as the only viable system
of governance, which is already bringing sustainable development to our nation
in spite of obvious challenges.
"I wish to
assure Deltans that government will not shirk its responsibilities to its
citizens as we shall at all times, conscientiously pursue what is in the best
interest of the State and according to the provisions of our Constitution.
“At 59, if we
are to make further progress and follow the speed of sustainable development
across the globe as a united people, we need to check our emphasis on regional,
ethnic and religious divides."
Okowa called
for concerted effort by all to foster growth and development in every part of
the country.
He said that
Nigerians let us look at themselves and share a sense of belonging as members
of one family.
"Fifty-nine
years in the life of any human being or entity is a remarkable point to
acknowledge and take stock.
"I,
therefore, salute our past and present leaders whose foresight and sacrifice
brought us the independence, which we are celebrating.
"I also
salute our people, especially Deltans, who over the years, made sacrifices to
ensure that our country remains united and committed to the path of democracy.
“As a
government, we have maintained a steady focus on the economy of the State with
a view to promoting prosperity and public-private-partnership in economic
development.
"The State
government has expended considerable resources towards improving basic
infrastructure notably roads, drainages, healthcare, electricity, schools,
bridges, housing, urban renewal and portable water supply.
"This
administration is determined to sustain this trend. It is, however, doubtful if the government alone can do all.
"Accordingly,
this administration is exploring private sector participation in the overall
development of the State.
“So far, we
have laid the foundation for a critical mass of skills for entrepreneurship and
business development.
" Over
20,000 persons benefited from our flagship Skills Training and Entrepreneurship
Programme (STEP), Youth Agricultural Entrepreneurs Programme (YAGEP) and
similar programmes undertaken by Ministries of Agriculture and Natural
Resources; Commerce and Industry, Women Affairs, including Delta State Micro,
Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency," the governor said.
He appealled to
beneficiaries of the schemes to avoid selling off the empowerment tools handed
over to them by the government at the end of their trainings.
According to
him, such an act defeats the purpose of creating a group of determined SME
operators who will turn the State’s and country’s economies around.
"It is
expected that the progress they make can and should be the envy of those who
opt for white collar jobs.”
The celebration featured match past by the military,
paramilitary agencies, students and pupils of public and private schools.
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