Religious leaders under the aegis of United Pastors Initiative for Good Governance has called on Nigerians to support the government and Armed Forces of Nigeria in its efforts to tackle insecurity.
The National President, United Pastors Initiative for Good Governance Rev. James Muya made the appeal Tuesday when he led a delegation of the group on a courtesy visit to the Minister of Defence Major General Salihi Bashir Magashi (retd) at the Ship House, Abuja.
“Finally, we enjoin all well-meaning Nigerians to give maximum support to the present government in its relentless efforts at tackling insecurity in the country.
“In this light we plead for the assistance of your kind office to help in securing our members as we carry out a nationwide campaign promoting our mandate especially in areas where insecurity is paramount”.
He commended President Muhamamadu Buhari’s efforts in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminal elements.
“Your Excellency Sir, we wish to appeal for your continued effort in the fight against insecurity as we prepare for the forthcoming General elections. To the Service Chiefs, a big applause from our hearts on behave of Nigerians, for there wouldn’t have been successful collaborations which led to great victories without your co-operations and spirit of statesmanship.
He called on the federal government to ensure protection of ours members scattered across the country.
The Minister of Defence represented by the Director Planning, Research and Statistics Benson Odama called on religious leaders to pray for Nigeria without taking sides.
He said the nation’s challenges are surmountable but often times underestimated.
“The challenges are not insurmountable, government is doing it best and with support from organisations like yours, I’m sure the zeal to continue will be further enhanced.”
He stated that Ministry Of Defence, will continue to do its best.
“We need prayers and support for the Armed Forces Nigeria especially those young men and women who put their lives in harm’s way for us to have peace.
“We need the support of all Nigerians and we need Nigerians to appreciate the efforts of our Armed Forces
“We need peace in this country, without peace no aspect of our economy will progress. I’ll appeal to you, without peace no sphere of our society will make progress.
“Preach peace in your churches, neighborhood, in your families because that is the only way to go.
“We are close to elections, we pray for peace, we pray for good leaders that will take us from where we are to where we want to be.
“That will happen if men of God like you will dispassionately pray without taking sides because you are expected to be apolitical, neutral and impartial and that is the only way we can move forward as a nation”.
