President Goodluck Jonathan on Sunday assured that the nation would overcome its daunting challenges with the prayers of the faithful and commitment of the leaders.
The president gave the assurance in his remarks at a Sunday service he attended at the Living Faith Church, Goshen City, Auta Balefi in Nasarawa State.
“I assure you this country will cross the bridge. Yes, we have challenges as a nation. Even the most developed nations pass through stages, sometimes even more challenging than we face today,’’ he said.
Jonathan drew an analogy from Saturday’s stunning comeback victory of the Super Eagles against Morocco in a quarter-final match of the 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) in South Africa.
He said the transformation of the country would take a surprise with the positive steps and right policies being put in place by his government.
“What happened yesterday (Saturday) in South Africa will be the story of this nation. Those of you who watched that match will know that it is not easy at the beginning.
“It was as if Nigeria was to be demolished. But, all of a sudden, the young men came very strong and we won. That is how it will be with the story of this country.
“With your prayers and commitment we will get to the destination.
“The promised land has never been an easy one for any nation. It was not easy for the Israelites. I promise that I and my colleagues will continue to do what is right for this country,” Jonathan said.
He solicited more prayers from the faithful and promised that the leaders would continue to do their best and would guide the nation right.
Earlier, Bishop David Abioye had attributed the peace in the country to the prayers by the Christians for the nation and the leaders.
He also assured that the Church would continue to offer the sacrifices of prayers and supplication for the nation and the leaders.
“Our leaders are human, they are not angels. It is prayers that make them to abide to the will of God. As we keep praying, God keeps guiding our leaders.
“When we pray they gravitate towards what is good. That is why the Church must keep praying. They are guided by our prayers. They are the targets of the enemy,’’ Abioye said.
The Living Faith Church leader hailed the President’s bold decision of signing the anti-gay law in spite of criticism and threat by the Western world.
“I want to at this time on behalf of the Church commend our President on one of the most recent decisions that he has taken.
“It is a decision in defence of the Church, a decision on the morality of the nation, and a decision that protects the culture of the Black Race.
“I also believe it is pace-setting to other nations of Africa. That is the decision against the same sex marriage. It is against ethics, it is against tradition, it is against humanity and, also, it is against the will of God.
“The Bible says righteousness exalts a nation, not human or international relations, and not diplomacy,” he said.
Abioye urged the President to keep doing the right things and assured him of the Church’s support and prayers.
The service coincided with the last day of the 21-day fasting and prayers of the Living Faith Church Worldwide.
