Governors have urged Nigerians to promote unity in the country and adhere to COVID-19 protocols to reduce the spread of the virus.
In their separate New Year messages, the governors said irrespective of all differences, Nigerians should live together peacefully for the socio-economic development of the country.
Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in his message, said despite the scourge of the COVID-19, his government was able to address infrastructure deficit in the state.
Makinde, who urged residents of the state to maintain a positive outlook this new year said the state was open for business and that his government remains committed to its promise to uplift the state, stating that it would never take the support of the people for granted.
On his part, the Plateau State Governor, Simon Bako Lalong, said despite the challenges of the outgone year, Nigerians should be optimistic and pray for recovery and progress.
Lalong said the economic challenges brought about by COVID-19 and recession can only be overcome by the deliberate synergy between the government, private sector, and citizens in pursuing set objectives that will create opportunities for recovery and growth.
Also, in his New Year message, Governor Samuel Ortom of Benue State expressed optimism that the state remains on course to realising the vision of an economically self-reliant state despite numerous challenges encountered last year.
Ortom also averred that the state as a prosperous federating unit of Nigeria anchored on the fear of God would in 2021 recover from the global, national and sub-national economic and pandemic crisis which has adversely affected the economy.
Similarly, the Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed has tasked the citizens of the state and other Nigerians irrespective of ethnic colouration, political differences or religious persuasions to remain united for the development of the state.
“I appeal to our citizens to brace up for the second wave of COVID-19. We must see and treat this disease as a clear and present danger that requires sacrifice, discipline and commitment to fight it,” he said.
In his message, Taraba State Governor, Darius Ishaku urged the people of the state not to allow the lessons of 2020 to elude them but rather use the lessons and experiences to guide their actions and decisions in this year. Ishaku in a New Year message to the people of the state also urged citizens of the state to forgive one another and make peace with their neighbours.
In the same vein, the Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has raised alarm over the second wave of COVID-19 in the state. Wike had earlier warned that he will lock down the state this month if residents continue to flout the COVID-19 protocols.
(Source: Daily Trust)
