The Federal Government on Sunday urged Nigerians to pray for the security agents partaking in the ongoing military action to end the reign of terror in parts of the country.
The Minister of Information, Mr Labaran Maku, gave the charge at a special thanksgiving service in honour of Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, the Defence spokesman, in Abuja.
The service was held at Redeem Christian Church of God (RCCG), Central Parish, Abuja.
“We call on the relentless prayers and support of citizens for the security agents as they battle to end the menace of insurgency in parts of the country,” he said.
Maku, who is also the Supervising Minister for Defence, said the task undertaken by security agents to protect human sanctity against insurgents required the cooperation of all well-meaning citizens.
He explained that members of the security community had in the discharge of their duties in recent times sacrificed a lot for the sake of peace, unity and development of the country.
“With the support from the Federal Government and the entire public, the present fight against insurgency in parts of the North-East, would be won and peace shall be restored in the affected areas,” Maku said.
On the elevation of Olukolade to the rank of Major-General, the minister said it came as a result of his contribution in the advancement of the country’s military.
“Olukolade’s promotion was as a result of sheer hard work and dedication to duty as demonstrated in his handling of information on the ongoing military operations across the country,” he said.
He described Olukolade as an accomplished officer who had served the country dutifully so far, adding that “his outstanding approach to duty should be a model for younger officers to emulate”.
Earlier, Pastor Tunde Oduwole, urged the people not to give up on God, saying God will intervene in the challenges facing the country.
Oduwole, however, urged the people to turn away from evil and return to God, adding that those in position of authority must have fear of God.
“The political leadership should adopt a godly approach to solving the country’s mirage challenges, this should include steps that are capable of addressing the challenges confronting the poor amongst us,” he said.
In an interview with newsmen after the service, Olukolade said his elevation to the rank of a Major-General was an act of God.
According to him, my excellent journey in the military so far was facilitated by God and made easy by my colleagues, this I mean, soldiers and officers both serving and retired that I have been privileged to work with. [NAN]
