Presidential Research & Communications Unit

The Vice President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has renewed call for prayers, self purge and meaningful contributions by all Nigerians for the achievement good governance and national development.

He stated this on Sunday, May 31, at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, during the Interdenominational Church Service to mark the 2009 Democracy Day Celebration.

Dr. Jonathan who noted that Nigeria’s developmental process is not as bad as painted in the face of the numerous challenges and problems it has encountered as a nation since inception, expressed hope that with good planning the nation will progress. He argued that with the attainment of 10 years of uninterrupted civil rule, Nigeria has achieved certain level of democratic stability which will ensure national success and progress stating that without stability no nation can stand or develop.

While noting the significant role played by Christians in the national march to development, the VP urged them not to relent in their contributions to national unity, assuring that the Federal Government is committed to positive changes that will fast track unity and progress. “Structures have been set up by the Federal Government to ensure sustainable development”, he added.

Dr. Jonathan observed that the electoral process is one of the present Administration’s most critical challenges stressing that the Federal Government is determined to find a lasting solution to the problem. He explained that the process is a concern to both the Federal Government and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This is as he condemned the attitude of those who out of selfishness always condemn the leaders.

Pastor Joshua Nathan of ECWA Church, Kaduna, while delivering the sermon challenged Nigerians to show commitment enough to contribute to the rebuilding of the nation through God. According to Pastor Nathan, it is only through self commitment and individual contributions that Nigeria will achieve greatness. He charged all Nigerians both leaders and followers to re-examine themselves and contribute positively to the development of the country.

The President of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace John Onaiyekan, assured that Christians throughout Nigeria will continue to pray for peace and development for the nation to move to greater heights.

Dignitaries who were in attendance include the wife of the Vice President, Dame Patience Jonathan, the Hon. Minister of Interior, Gen. Godwin Abbe (Rtd), the Hon. Minister of State for Petroleum Resourses, Chief Odein Ajumogobia, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation Ms Ama Pepple, the Chairman of PDP, Prince Vincent Ogbuluafor and the Chaplin of the Aso Villa Chapel, Ven. Obioma Onwuzurumba.