Cross River State Governor, Prof.Ben Ayade, has called on Nigerians to be resolute and re-dedicate themselves to the enduring values of the founding fathers.
Ayade’s position was made known in his 61st Independence Anniversary message to the people of Cross River State , saying the vision and aspirations of the founding fathers of a developed and indivisible Nigeria must be realised.
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The Governor said in the last 61 years, Nigerians had demonstrated more commitment, greater faith and unflinching belief in the project called Nigeria, despite the challenges facing the country.
He said “As a people, we are currently confronted by a wave of insurgency and banditry. But against all odds, we have continued to bounce back, to rediscover ourselves by staying focused, steadfast and optimistic. And with the Almighty God watching over us, our dear country shall overcome.
“In spite of those dispiriting moments however, there have been glittering times, that we have exuded so much national pride as a people, following our chain of accomplishments as a nation.
” Conscious of the fact that no nation has ever berthed on a roller coaster; or fulfilled its destiny without sweat, we cannot, therefore, as a country, afford to take our eyes off the ball”.
According to the Governor , it has been an admixture, sometimes chequered, disappointing, hard and fraught with challenges, that so often tend to numb our spirits but ” we survived all” .
Edited by Tunde Orebiyi