Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa has felicitated Nigerians, particularly Christians, on the Easter celebrations and urged them to renew hope in advancing the state and the country at large.

The governor spoke on Saturday during the Easter Cantata Service at the King of Glory Chapel, Government House, Yenagoa,

Mr Diri expressed optimism that Nigeria would emerge stronger from the current economic and security challenges.

He said the situation in Nigeria was redeemable, and the signs were beginning to manifest.

Mr Diri urged citizens to sacrifice for Bayelsa and Nigeria to move forward, drawing from the example of Jesus Christ, who sacrificed his life for mankind.

He recalled the efforts and sacrifices of Bayelsa’s founding fathers and called for all hands to be on deck to make the state greater.

The governor advised the current crop of leaders in the state to bequeath worthy legacies for the younger generation.

According to Mr Diri, Christians should not only hear the word but also reflect on Christ’s teachings in their lives because that is the only way the country can make progress.

“Some persons might say the governor is weak. But, for me, the best way to use power is not to use it. Jesus had the power to free himself but did not use it.

“Rather, he sacrificed his life on our behalf. So, what are we sacrificing for our children and our state? What legacy are we leaving?

“This is a state we fought for and celebrated when it was created. Leaders sacrificed to give us a state. What are we sacrificing?

“My dear people of Bayelsa, there is hope. Let us leave hatred and learn to forgive; otherwise, our heavenly father would not forgive us our sins. Bayelsa is blessed,” Mr Diri said.

In his sermon, Bishop Michael Amamieye emphasised the importance of prayer as exemplified by Jesus and urged Christians to make it a way of life.

(NAN)