Nigeria’s President Muhammadu Buhari has called on citizens not to allow the antics of a few mischief mongers to fragment the unity of the country, re-emphasising the fact that “we are better and stronger as one nation”.
The Nigerian leader stated this in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina in felicitation with Christians on the occasion of this year’s Easter celebration.
“We should not allow the antics of a few mischief mongers to fragment the unity and faith that the vast majority of citizens of this country cherish and believe in. As I’ve said before, we are better and stronger as one nation under God,” Bihari who is currently in London on a routine medical trip said.
The statement also quoted the President as commending the country’s law enforcement and military personnel who continue to confront evil-minded individuals through the darkest of nights to keep citizens safe.
The President recalls that a year ago, “in most of our major cities, our celebrations were somewhat subdued, as we battled the effect of the deadly Coronavirus pandemic.
“The restrictions meant that our brethren could not attend traditional church services as they would have wished. I salute their resilience and understanding.
“Today, we are able to congregate and worship together, cautiously.”
According to the statement, “President Buhari deeply acknowledges and appreciates the sacrifices of our doctors, nurses and other frontline health workers, who have made the difference in saving lives and ensuring the reduction of the spread of the virus.
“I thank Nigerians who have religiously adhered to various interventions to curb the spread of COVID-19, including regular hand washing; safe distancing, wearing of face masks, and embrace of vaccination.
“We are united in our belief that if we do the right things, take the right decisions and act responsibly, the pandemic, like others before it, will no longer be a threat.”
As Christians celebrate Easter, the President says it is an opportunity to renew hope and faith, show love and appreciation to one another and not to despair, no matter the challenges of the period.
“As a government, we will continue to ensure that the weak, the poor and the underprivileged in our midst are not abandoned.
“We have reached out with palliative care even in the midst of dwindling resources; we have tried our best to provide support to families and businesses affected at this time.
“That is the spirit of Easter. The spirit of Faith. The spirit of Belief. The spirit of Hope.”
The President commended law enforcement and military personnel “who continue to confront evil-minded individuals through the darkest of nights to keep us safe”.
“I am convinced that the new resolve within the security personnel to make sure that insecurity in the country becomes part of our history will come to pass.
“I congratulate our brothers and sisters once again on this occasion and wish everyone a Happy Easter celebration.”
By Abel Ejikeme