Governor Ortom of Benue state Thursday called on Nigerians to work for peaceful coexistence and pray for Nigeria’s leadership under President Muhammadu Buhari to enable it surmount the current security and economic challenges.
Governor Ortom in a New Year message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase, said though year 2020 came with numerous challenges such as COVID-19 and increased insecurity, praises and glory must be given to God for His grace and protection through the year.
Governor Ortom stressed that the steps taken by Benue State Security Council such as the ban on motorcycles and illegal revenue collection points in Katsina-Ala and Ukum have so far yielded positive results in the fight against crimes.
The governor commended Operation Whirl Stroke, the State Police Command, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as all other security agencies for their untiring efforts in guaranteeing the safety of lives and property in the state.
He assured the people that his administration will continue to support them to succeed.
He specially commended the State Action Committee on COVID-19, led by the Deputy Governor, Engineer Benson Abounu and all those who have been diligently serving in the frontline and the back end to contain the pandemic, noting that their selfless efforts have resulted in the relatively successful response to the virus in the state.
Ortom equally appreciated people of the state for their support which has helped the present administration to record achievements in various sectors of the economy in form of projects in infrastructure, health, education and rural development.
The Governor said the progress made by the State Government despite the difficult period, was assurance that despite the challenges the state is facing, it remained on course to realise the vision of an economically self-reliant and prosperous federating unit of Nigeria that is anchored on the fear of God.
