Nigeria remains shining star of Africa despite challenges, says Osinbajo

Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo has expressed optimism that Nigeria will overcome its economic, religious, ethnic, security and other challenges.

He said the country remains Africa’s shining star, despite the difficulties it is passing through.

The Vice-President maintained that 10 of the country’s 36 states have larger economies than major African countries.

Osinbajo spoke on Sunday in Abuja at Nigeria’s 61st Independent anniversary inter-denominational church service and 45th anniversary thanksgiving service of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).

In his speech, titled: The Vision Undefeated, he said: “That vision of our forebears is inherent in the words of our national motto: ‘Unity, Faith, Peace and Progress’. Through the years, we worked that vision, through thick and thin. From subjection to colonial monarchy to sovereign republic, to civil rule to military rule.

“We fought a bitter war among brothers, which cost millions of lives. Though we still wear the deep scars of those wounds, the Lord preserved the Republic.

“We have since become the most educated and most entrepreneurial nation in Africa. Ten of our 36 states have larger economies than major African countries. From our ranks, we have the most accomplished men and women: in the arts, in the sciences, in sports, in technology and commerce.

“But today, yet again, our path has been dogged by conflicts: religious and ethnic, economic challenges, insurgencies and banditry, much darkness, many valleys, many thorns…”

Osinbajo assured Nigerians that the various challenges, notwithstanding, Nigeria would not lose its vision of attaining greater heights.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha said every Nigerian should be thankful to God, despite what the country has gone through.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, said: “I want the Vice-President to inform the President that we are praying and we believe that all will be well. Psalm 67: 5-7.

“God shall bless us. Giving thanks is a command by God. Those who are praying for Nigeria to survive are many,” he said.