By PERE BOTU
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has called on Nigerians not to despair inspite of the numerous challenges confronting the country.
Governor Okowa made the call during the celebration of the 61st Independence anniversary celebration at the Cenotaph, Asaba.
The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dcn Kingsley Otuaro, expressed hope that Nigeria would come out of its present challenges stronger and live up to its promise as the giant of Africa and subsequently the envy of the World.
He said though many Nigerians may not see the need to celebrate especially in the light of the myraid of security and economic challenges facing the country stressing that Nigerians should be thankful that we have a country of our own
Senator Okowa noted that every Independence anniversary offers Nigerians the opportunity to reflect on the journey so far and reaffirm their commitment to sustaining and building on the legacies of the heroes past.
The Governor pointed out that the country can accomplish her dreams of development and peace through sacrifice, innovation,dedication and tenacity of vision adding that Nigeria has made substantial progress even though there were still many areas that needs urgent attention.
Senator Okowa urged the people to continue to pray for political leaders and hold them accountable to the principles of good governance predicated on fairness, equity and Justice .
The Governor pledged to continue to invest in policies and programmes that would give hope to the younger generation,create limitless opportunities for job and wealth creation in addition to accelerating infrastructural development for growth and renewal.
The Governor said his administration has continued to carry out infrastructural upgrade in public primary and secondary Schools while retooling the curricula to make it more relevant to the twenty first century market place .
He noted that access has been broadened for tertiary education with the establishment of three new Universities àdding that his goals is to provide the highest quality of education for youths to acquire the right tools to become global players.
The Governor emphasized that through entrepreneurship development programme and policy on technical and vocational government was raising a generation of world changers who possess critical skills.
Governor Okowa urged Deltans to strengthen peaceful coexistence and harmonious living among the various ethnic nationaliaties and shun prejudice in order to build a stronger delta.
On arrival at the Cenotaph,the Governor inspected the parade mounted by the police and paramilitary and thereafter there was match past where local government council chairmen,women groups,pupils of Police children school,Asaba among others.
Earlier , at a Thanksgiving service held at the Government House Chapel with the Governor represented by the Secretary to the State Government,Chief Patrick Ukah.
The service was attended by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Honour Sheriff Oborevwori,his Deputy, Honourable Ochor Ochor,some commissioners among other top government functionaries.