Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has said that Nigeria needs strong leadership in order to tackle the challenges afflicting the nation.
Speaking during the Juma’at service in commemoration of Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary held at the State Central Mosque, Niger Street, Port Harcourt on Friday, Wike, who was represented by the Special Adviser on School Sports, Dr Okiri Mohammed urged Rivers people to support him in the battle against the Federal government as regards the issue of collection of Value Added Tax (VAT).
The governor enjoined various ethnic and religious groups to create stronger ties amongst themselves, which he said will ensure overall peace and unity in the country.
“This independence of the country is about the unity and strength of the country. The country is passing through a perilous times and the country requires strong leadership. It requires faith, and collectively we can achieve peace when we come together by the grace of God.”
In his remarks, the Sole Administrator, Rivers State Muslim Pilgrims Board, Abdul-Razak Diepreye, aked the APC-led Federal government to implement strong economic policies that will allow states to become economically viable.
Diepreye expressed his support to the Govenor on his legal battle for the decentralization of VAT, lauding him for setting the pace.
“The nation is having serious security challenges. The APC Federal government should be able to come up with necessary economic relief for this nation.”
“I thank His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State for setting the pace in the history of this country. I wholehearted support his Excellency on this issue of VAT and I believe a lot of well-meaning Nigerians are also in support.”
In his message titled, “To Keep Hope Alive” the Imam, Port Harcourt Central Mosque, Malik Yahaya, noted the sacrifices made by the forefathers in fighting for the independence of the nation.
