Ini Billie, Uyo
Akwa Ibom State Governor Dr Umo Eno has urged citizens to maintain peace and unity during the yuletide.
Speaking during his Christmas broadcast on Wednesday in Uyo, Eno urged the people to redouble their efforts to inspire and help the vulnerable and downtrodden as Jesus Christ did, saying there is hope for change.
He pledged that the government will continue to work hard to extend development to all parts and sectors of the state as the new year approaches.
“Christmas is a season of love, of giving and of unity. It is a period where we should redouble our efforts in looking out for the vulnerable and the downtrodden and inspire in them a spirit of hope and faith that, just as our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ was born in a manger, their circumstance today may change, and they too, can be leaders of tomorrow.
“We have been humbled greatly by what we have collectively achieved across sectors, and as we get ready to usher in the New Year, we will continue to roll our sleeves and work harder to ensure we produce enough food to feed our people.
“Extend more development to the rural areas, expand our infrastructure, ensure our State remains an oasis of peace and tranquility and get our children to stay focused in their educational pursuits, so they may compete with their peers all over the world, in the spirit of our Arise Agenda.
“We will continue to focus on the needs of our people while challenging them to Arise and flourish through the creative application of the talents and creativity God has embedded in us all.
“Our state is peaceful, safe and secure, and I urge our great and resourceful youths to help maintain this status during the Yuletide. I enjoin them to shun anti-social tendencies or acts capable of disturbing public peace.
“Let us wear our unity and love as badges of honour and continue to celebrate our bonds of kindredship, which, thankfully, is currently in full display at the Christmas Unplugged 2024 edition,” he stated.