Archbishop Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), says Nigeria will be great if the citizens remain steadfast and prayerful.

“Though we are still facing challenges, let us not give up,” Mr Okoh, also Co-chairman of Nigeria Interreligious Council, said this on Saturday.

In a message to mark Nigeria’s 62nd independence anniversary, Mr Okoh urged Nigerians to “rely on the faithfulness of God” for justice and peace to reign in the country.

“I urge you to take the unpleasant experiences that have plagued our nation in the past as necessary lessons of life that will make us a stronger, better, and resilient nation on earth.

“In the face of the hardships in our country, let us continue to exercise patience through perseverance as we bring all our challenges to God, trusting that He will reveal His righteousness and grant us justice in our times of distress,” he added.

He said Nigeria had the potential to be great and continue to lead Africa on the global stage.

The CAN president advised the federal government to resolve the impasse with university lecturers, for the sake of young people whose future is at stake.

He said that CAN would continue to speak and stand up against injustice and work for peace in a constructive way.

“As we march gallantly towards the next general elections, let us bear in mind that we have a stake in this country, and so refrain from engaging in acts that will destroy the fortunes and the prospects of this nation.

“Rather than take up arms to kill each other and terrify innocent Nigerians, adults in this nation should take up their voters’ card and go to the polls.

“We must resist any threat, strong or subtle, in whichever form to stop us from going out to vote on the day of elections,” Mr Okoh emphasised.

The CAN president also urged Nigerians to shun vote-buying, arguing that politicians who induce voters, especially on the polling day, did not care for the people’s welfare.

“I counsel you to look out for politicians who are genuine and who are sincere to provide the basics that will be the catalyst for economic growth and development,” he said.

He asked God to rescue Nigeria from the hands of wicked people, grant peace to the country and help the people to love one another irrespective of religion and ethnicity.

(NAN)