Taraba state governor, Mr Darius Ishaku has called on politicians and all Nigerians to have a drastic change in attitude and approach to governance.
Ishaku, who stated this in Jalingo lamented that the country is not yet matured after 59 years of Independence.
The governor also decried the nation’s situation and expressed worried that elite have failed to take Nigeria to its rightful position. “We are seen and called the giant of Africa while we are not yet matured.
“So many things still need to be done. We need to change our thinking, work hard in education, health and power, among others. “If we can improve on power alone, the multiplier effects would be tremendous,” he said
He explained that Nigeria is yet to make use of its age to better the lives of its citizens stressing, ” It is shameful that at 59 years, we are still battling to stand on our own. I was in Rwanda, and it was so amazing with what I saw there” he noted.
@59: Nigeria hopeful despite challenges – Ayade
By Joseph Obung,
Calabar
Governor Ben Ayade has said that in spite of Nigeria’s various challenges, the country was making steady progress in many facets of its socio-economic endeavours and was hopeful of a brighter future.
The governor said this during the 59th independence anniversary celebration at the UJ Esuene stadium in Calabar, Tuesday.
Ayade, who was represented by his deputy, Prof Ivara Esu, said his submission was based on the fact that “In spite of dispirited moments, there have been sparking times that we have radiated so much national pride as a people, following our chains of accomplishments as a nation,” adding, “no nation has ever berthed on a roller coaster or fulfilled its destiny without sweat.”
His words: “As we celebrate today, we cannot say with absolute conviction that 59 years down the line, it has been a bed of roses. At best, it has been a potpourri; at times chequered, disappointing, hard and fraught with challenges that so often dulled our spirits.
“And against all odds, we have continued to bounce back, to rediscover ourselves by staying focused, steadfast and optimistic. Today’s anniversary marks another turning point as we continue to soldier on with audacity of hope, a refreshing optimism and the spirit of enterprise.
“With our minds firmly fixed on the ever-glittering skyline, we shall sure chart a pathway to our destination. More poignantly, today’s celebration should no doubt serve as a reawakening and an enticing platform to reflect on our past in order to recalibrate our future.”
The Governor assured indigenes and residents of the state that his administration was determined to industrialize the state in order to ensure that employment opportunities were created.
“We shall not relent until we ensure that every Cross Riverian is indeed rescued and clawed back from the socio-economic quagmire that has held us captive to hunger and lack.
“As an administration, we came with a clear focus to restructure and recalibrate the economy of our state. In line with that emphasis, we have been able to create a new economy that is anchored on industrialization and agricultural development with a huge potential to create jobs and lift our people out of poverty,” he stated.
