KADUNA – President Goodluck Jonathan, on Monday, advised Nigerians to emulate the legacies of the Premier of Northern Region, late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto.
Jonathan made the call during the inaugurationn of the new secretariat of Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation in Kaduna.
He said the late premier lived a life of sacrifice and dedicated his life to the development of the region and the country.
Represented by the Minister of Special Duties, Alhaji Kabiru Turaki, Jonathan said that the Sardauna was a visionary leader who helped to industralise the region during his tenure as premier.
He said “Sir Ahmadu Bello and his colleagues lived a life of dedication and humility, which led to our independence from Britain without firing a shot.
“I assure you all that we will also emulate him in our effort to overcome the challenges facing our country today.’’
The President also said that the Federal Government remained resolute and conscious of its responsibility of protecting the lives of law abiding citizens.
Jonathan assured Nigerians that government would continue the war against terror in the country, just as the administration would engage in dialogue with insurgents willing to give peace a chance.
He commended the Foundation for providing scholarship to students and relief materials to victims of insurgency.
In his speech, Justice Mamman Nasir, the Chairman, Advisory Council of the Foundation, described Sir Ahmadu Bello as sacrificial pilot of the North who united the region.
He said “our leader was not tribalistic, had no religious sentiment, but worked to unite us in the North.
“The North started well and will end well in spite of the challenges, I know we will overcome.’’
In a remark, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Foundation, Dr Babangida Aliyu, urged Nigerians to embrace peace so as to lead to changes in the lives of the people. (NAN)
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