Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode on Sunday said the outcome of the 2015 elections was an eloquent testimony of God’s love for Nigeria.
Governor Ambode said despite the predictions of anarchy and possible unrest, God showed His mighty hand upon Nigeria and for the very first time, the nation experienced a smooth and peaceful transition from one civilian government to another, and the ruling party became the opposition.
The Governor, who spoke at the Lagos House, Ikeja during the 2016 Annual Thanksgiving Service, also reassured Lagosians of the determination of his administration to work hard to achieve all-inclusive progress and prosperity for all in 2016.
Governor Ambode said despite the bleak economic outlook predicted in many quarters, Lagos State will grow in leaps and bounds and take its rightful place among the major city-states of the world.
“Our youths will become gainfully employed. Our young girls and women will be protected and encouraged to give their best.”
“Our entrepreneurs will experience a boom and our State will work for everyone. We are determined and God willing, we shall achieve all-inclusive progress and prosperity,” Governor Ambode said.
Speaking on the essence of the Thanksgiving Service, Governor Ambode said: “We are gathered this evening in thanksgiving to the Almighty for the grace to witness the beginning of 2016. This annual thanksgiving has become a tradition where we come together to sing the praise of God for the continuous peace and prosperity of our dear State.”
“This service is an acknowledgment of the overriding power of God in the affairs of men and the need for us to trust in His grace and benevolence as a government and a people.”
“The fact the we are gathered here is enough proof that we are covered under the banner of the Lord’s grace and that He surely answers prayers when He is called upon. It is with this abiding faith that we call on Him as we commence another journey in 2016,” the Governor said.
He acknowledged the religious and spiritual leaders in the State for their ceaseless prayers and intercessions for the people and government.
He specially appreciated the General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye and his wife for their commitment in the service of the Lord through persistent exhortations and prayers.
In his exhortation, Pastor Adeboye said despite the predictions for 2016 in the wake of the dwindling oil prices likely to result in loss of jobs, those connected to God can surmount these challenges.
He said those who seek to prosper in the New Year must take a stand to be closer to God.
Special prayers were offered at the service for the State and Nigeria by clergymen including Bishop Mike Okonkwo, His Eminence, Most Rev. Chukwuemaka Kalu Uche; Pastor Wole Oladiyun, Pastor Wale Adefarasin, Archbishop Adewale Martins, Most Rev. E.A Ademowo, among others.
Bible reading at the service were read by Governor’s Ambode’s wife, Bolanle; Lagos State. Head of Service, Mrs. Olabowale Ademola; Lagos State Chief Judge, Justice Olufunmilayo Atilade; Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. (Mrs.) Lola. Akande, and Chairman of Conference of Executive Secretaries of Local Government and Local Council Development Areas in Lagos State, Hon. Alabi Kolade David.
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