Nigeria At 59: Obiano Advocates For Peace, Pledges To Rehabilitate Roads And Intensify Security

IKENNA ANIAGBOSO

The Executive Governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano, has advocated for the continued progress, peace and unity of Nigeria.

The Governor said this during a church service, Sunday, September 29, 2019, at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Awka to herald the 59th Independence Anniversary celebration of Nigeria.

During the service, Gov Obiano also declared intensified security and massive road rehabilitation in Anambra State as soon as the rains abate.

He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to providing adequate security and safety to Ndi Anambra, revealing that the government has concluded arrangements to re-equip the security agencies with facilities to prevent and combat crime.

Gov Obiano paid special tribute to the heads of security agencies present at the church service in recognition of their selfless service and unflinching commitment to ensuring that Anambra State remains safe and secure.

“These are the men who ensure that Ndi Anambra sleep with their two eyes closed”, the Governor remarked as he invited the congregation to give them a befitting ovation.”

On roads, the Governor regretted the present condition of roads in the state. He observed that the roads deteriorate as a result of blocked drains which cause flooding and consequently erode the roads.

“It is difficult to do any meaningful work on roads during the rains. Whatever you put on ground will be washed away easily because of the nature of our soil and flooding caused by blocked drains” he said.

Gov Obiano promised to rehabilitate roads as soon as the rains are over. He urged Ndi Anambra to desist from disposing garbage into drains and also ensure that silt is removed from drains running through their homes, shops or offices.

“I assure you that the roads will receive urgent attention once it is dry season. You will witness major interventions on road and other areas of infrastructural development.”

“However, the citizen must assist government by ensuring that drains are free. You must endeavour to remove silt from drains in front of your house, office or shop. We must take the sanitation days serious and desist from throwing garbage into the drains.”

“We need to work together to achieve the progress, safety and unity that we all desire.”

The Presiding Bishop and Catholic Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Dr Paulinus Ezeokafor, lauded the Governor for his achievements and urged him to do more for Ndi Anambra. He prayed for the peace and unity of Anambra State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.