A’Ibom 33rd Anniversary : Gov Emmanuel Leads Citizens In Thanksgiving
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has paid glowing tribute to past leaders for the unity, peace and progress recorded during the 33 years of statehood, assuring of his administration’s resolved to consolidate on the formidable foundation laid by successive governments to change the socioeconomic landscape of the state .
Governor Emmanuel was speaking during a special thanksgiving service to kickstart the state’s 33rd anniversary celebration at the Banquet Hall, Government House , Uyo.
Describing 33 as significant number that has marked major turning points in world events, the governor expressed optimism that the anniversary celebration will bring about a new dawn in the state.
“I really thank God for the entire citizenry of this state. For the past 33 years, we cannot fail to appreciate God. 33 is a master number which gives the potential to grow to higher consciousness.
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“At 33 Jesus Christ fulfilled his mission of sacrificing his life to save mankind. As the leader of this state, I believe 33 will mark the beginning of our release into realizing and fulfilling our dreams as a state”, he stated.
Governor Emmanuel expressed gratitude to the founding fathers, past leaders, elders, security agencies and other stakeholders in the state for their contributions to keep the state safe, united and for the giant strides attained.
“I use this occasion to also acknowledge and appreciate all our leaders for the past 33 years, our fathers who have supported different governments that have been in this state over the years.
“For the 33 years, many have served as Governors, Military Administrators and contributed their own and left. We have to understand that no single person can do it all. You just come, do the best of your ability and service, then God will take up from there”, he explained.
Governor Emmanuel maintained that the state has remained stronger and united over the years, adding that with the solid economic foundation so far laid for the state and as successive governments continue to build on it over time, Akwa Ibom will not celebrate golden jubilee as a state in want.
“We have made progress tremendously as a people. We have laid a solid economic foundation for this state and will continue to build on it overtime. I know, the Lord who has begun the good work is faithful to see us through. I will do the best I can with God’s given ability to move the state forward. As we move ahead God will help us; we will not celebrate Golden Jubilee as a state in poverty, darkness or want”, Emmanuel assured.
The Governor cautioned against creating unnecessary tension over 2023 elections and spoke of his resolve to focus on good governance, hoping that God will favour the state with a worthy successor as he did for Israel by choosing Joshua to succeed Moses.
“As we celebrate 33 years, I don’t expect people to create unnecessary tension because of politics. The day I was sworn- in for a second term, I said election was over and that it was time for governance and in governance we don’t relate with people based on political party, we relate with you as an Akwa Ibomite and whatever we do is for the sake and the good of this land”.
He expressed regrets over restraint in holding the usual large gathering imposed by the ongoing pandemic and assured all citizens joining the event online of equal blessing.
Preaching on the theme, “Remember Me O Lord” drawn from Leviticus 26: 42, President and founder of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries Int’l, Bishop Francis Wole Oke, advised indigenes of the state to believe in God as one who keeps to His covenants.
The service featured praises, prayers for the state, Governor and for the people of the state.
