By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
Umuahia – Gov. Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia, has urged Nigerians to seek virtues and values that promote national unity as a means of fostering socioeconomic development.
Ikpeazu gave this charge on Monday while addressing newsmen on the occasion of the 2018 Independence Day anniversary in Umuahia.
The governor expressed confidence that despite the economic, political, and security challenges facing the country, ”we are stronger staying together than apart”.
Ikpeazu said that the occasion was an avenue for every patriotic Nigerian to take a retrospective look on the country and ask the question, ”who really holds Nigeria together?’’.
He said that he was convinced by the fact that through unwavering loyalty and positive contributions from Nigerians, the future of the nation would be prosperous.
Ikpeazu said that Nigeria had come of age, adding that it was necessary for Nigerians to take steps to promote national integration.
According to him, this is the time that all men of goodwill and courage, who can stand straight as patriots should speak for Nigeria, fight for Nigeria and if possible, die for Nigeria.
“We are better and stronger being together than apart. I am confident that God, who has brought us together under the geographical entity called Nigeria will continue to keep us together”.
Ikpeazu said that unity was important in nation building, adding that Nigerians ought to rise and build a nation, where peaceful coexistence as well as harmony thrive.