Most Rev. David Ajang, the Catholic Bishop of Lafia Diocese, has called on the Federal Government to urgently take steps toward addressing hunger and the security challenges currently confronting the nation.
The Bishop spoke at a Thanksgiving Mass organised by Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, Nasarawa State Deputy Governor.
The mass was held at St Aloysius Catholic Church, Doma on Sunday.
The cleric said that addressing insecurity and hunger would not only promote peace, but significantly improve the living standard of Nigerians.
Ajang said: “This is a critical time; security is a big problem and the second one is hunger.
“I think something needs to be done.”
Ajang, who quoted various verses in the Bible, called on Christians and Nigerians in general to shun evil, adding that such a move would enable them to inherit God’s kingdom.
The Bishop also called on Nigerians to use their God-given talent to promote peace and development in the nation.
He also advised Nigerians, particularly the youths, to shun cyber and all forms of crime.
He said: “Before now, people were doing Yahoo (internet fraud) in hiding, but today, a lot are proud of doing Yahoo in the open.
“Young people must desist from all forms of crimes.
“That way, our society will be better.”
Ajang urged christians to regularly show gratitude to God at all times to attract His favour and blessings.
The Bishop assured the deputy governor of his support and constant prayers for God’s guidance as he supports his principal in running the affairs of the state.
In his remarks, Akabe said he organised the thanksgiving to appreciate God for sustaining his life and that of his family members.
He said: “We are thanking God for so many things, for protecting not only my life, but that of my family members as well
“We thank God for protecting our leaders, from the President to his vice, to Governor Abdullahi Sule, my principal, and many others.”
The deputy governor urged the people of the state to pray and support the current administration at the federal and state levels.
Akabe, who also urged the people of the state to be united and peaceful, added that the government had taken proactive steps toward addressing hunger and insecurity in the country.
On his part, Danladi Jatau, the Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, thanked God for sustaining the life of Akabe and his family.
He equally urged residents of the state to pray and support Governor Sule to succeed.
Jatau said: “Elections and litigations are over.
“It is now time for governance.
“Let’s all continue to pray and support Governor Sule to succeed.
“All we need is your support and prayers.”
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event attracted Rep. Jonathan Gaza; Muhammad Oyanki, the Deputy Speaker of the State Assembly; and Dr. John Mamman, Commissioner for Education in the state, among other dignitaries.
