Punch Newspaper- President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday assured Nigerians that despite the enormous challenges facing the country, Nigeria would be great again.
Buhari said this in an address he delivered at the inauguration of 500 housing units at Kalambaina Housing Estate, Sokoto. He said his administration had resolved to overcome all challenges and bring positive changes to all Nigerians.
The President said, “Looking forward, despite the enormity of the challenges facing us, we are optimistic that by the grace of God, our nation is destined to achieve greatness.
“Today’ economic recession is affecting our economy. But we are resolved to overcome challenges, fight corruption and ensure good governance for the benefit of our citizens.
“Our administration is poised to bring positive changes to all Nigerians.”
Buhari also said all the challenges facing the county should be addressed through disciplined and committed leadership.
While speaking on the 10th anniversary of the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, the President urged traditional rulers and all patriotic Nigerians to continue to work for the peace of the country.
He said, “The 10th Anniversary of His Eminence, the Sultan and events of its kind are not simply held for merriment but to provide opportunity for sober reflections.
“I am speaking in the context of the challenges which our dear nation needs to address through exemplary, disciplined and committed leadership in order to accomplish our aspirations for a strong and virile polity that will be a source of pride to present and future generations.
“It is an indisputable fact that in the 60s, 70s and even in the early part of the 80s, Nigeria was reputed for its peaceful coexistence between the different ethnic and religious groups; the culture of discipline and patriotism was also highly safeguarded.
“Commitment to national development by all key players in governance was also visible.
“However, the situation as we all know, has unfortunately changed. Events associated with the anniversary and importantly the relevance of value of the Caliphate system must be base for progressive and self-reliant nation where, every citizen, irrespective of creed or tribal affiliation is given opportunity for self-actualisation.
“In this regard, the Sultan and our highly esteemed Royal Fathers, our traditional institutions and indeed all patriotic citizens of this country have to continue to work for peace, religious harmony and sustainable development of our country.
“Every government has the sacred responsibility of addressing the welfare of the governed in all possible ways. Provision of shelter to the teeming populace is in this context a priority for a purposeful leadership.”
Buhari commended the Sultan for what he described as his invaluable contributions to the development of the country.
He said the Sultan had consistently proved himself worthy of his ancestors.
“He has continuously worked to promote peace and unity in the country. He has remained a leader, treading the path of his revered ancestors in building bridges of understanding amongst diverse ethnic and religious groups in the country.
“It is our prayer that Allah (SWT) will continue to bless the Sultan, extend his reign and enrich us with more leaders of his exemplary standing,” he added.
