Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to inclusivity, assuring the Muslim community of their integral role in his people-centred Government, regardless of religious background.
The Governor gave this assurance on Friday during a Jumaat service at the Izala Central Mosque in Calabar, as part of activities marking Nigeria's 66th Independence Anniversary.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Religious Affairs, Apostle Frank Umo, Governor Otu disclosed that a significant number of Muslims have already benefited from the recent oil and gas empowerment programme and promised that more members of the community especially the youth would be captured in subsequent initiatives.
Accompanied by the Chairman of the Cross River State Muslim Welfare and Pilgrims Board, Imam Kabeer Olowolayemo, the Special Adviser commended the Muslim community for its role in sustaining peaceful coexistence in the State, emphasising that the present period calls for unity rather than division.
He further noted that the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has rolled out laudable programmes and reforms aimed at improving the fortunes of Nigerians, urging citizens to be patient for the reforms to fully materialise.
"Today, we celebrate unity in our diversity. Cross River is now more peaceful than ever, and the Governor is committed to providing a more conducive business environment for anyone pursuing legitimate enterprise in the state," he said, adding that Nigeria and Cross River State must be collectively protected.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Pastor Ekpenyong Ene Cobham, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Anthony Okon, thanked the Muslim community for remaining reliable partners in the development of Cross River State and assured them of more opportunities in the years ahead.
In his remarks, the Imam of Izala Central Mosque, Yusuf Ibrahim, affirmed the congregation's unwavering support for President Tinubu and Governor Otu.
He pledged the community's readiness to mobilise for continuity of Government at both the Federal and State levels, describing continuity as a sure bet for sustainable development.
The Imam commended Governor Otu for consistently carrying the Muslim community along in the affairs of the State, describing his leadership as one that has positively impacted the lives of many residents.
Highpoint of the well-attended Jumaat service was a special prayer session for peace, successful governance, and the continued good health and long life of both the President and the Governor, in commemoration of the nation's 66th Independence Anniversary.
By Nakanda Iyadim
