TheCable

Hope Uzodimma, governor of Imo state, says citizens must make Nigeria the envy of other countries.

In a statement to mark the Eid al-Fitr celebration on Thursday, Uzodimma said the COVID-19 pandemic and insecurity may have affected the Muslim festival, but Nigerians have been given an opportunity to reflect on “the awesomeness of God”.

The governor said the challenges affecting the country are a test of patience and self-sacrifice of Muslims as true believers in the teachings of Prophet Mohammed.

“The COVID-19 pandemic which continues to ravage parts of the globe, including Nigeria, as well as the threat of insecurity in different parts of the country, clearly test the resilience, dedication, patience and self-sacrifice of Muslims as true believers in the teachings of Prophet Mohammed,” he said.

“I advise them to hold tenaciously to those positive attributes which their faith espouses. We do not have any other country to call our own but Nigeria.

“Therefore, it behoves on us all, irrespective of our faith, to ensure that Nigeria is made the envy of other countries.

“Though this year’s Eid-el-Fitr ceremony, like that of 2020, may have been adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic and threats of insecurity in parts of the country, it has also provided an opportunity for the living to reflect deeply on the awesomeness of God Almighty in the face of challenges and appreciate Him for what He represents in our lives.”

Uzodimma added that his administration is committed to protecting the lives and property of all residents in Imo.

“I solicit also for our continuous prayers for the government and people of Imo State at a time like this. The government of Shared Prosperity is real and will always serve the interest of all law abiding residents,” he added.