NEWS FROM NIGERIA:Jonathan urges Nigerians not to despair

In spite of the challenges confronting Nigeria at the moment, the nation will get to the Promised Land, President Goodluck Jonathan has assured Nigerians. Jonathan, who partook in the first Sunday of the year service at St. Stephens Anglican Church, Otuoke, Bayelsa State, said huge potential abound in all parts of the country. In his short remarks, the President said his administration would continue to tap into those potential abound in the country to move the nation forward. He added that the country’s future was bright, despite the bumps and challenges dogging her currently. He used the opportunity to thank the church and Christians for praying for the nation, stressing that the period was a challenging one, not only for the country, but the whole world. He stated, “I thank you for your prayers, especially at this period. This is a period the world is passing through challenges. “We have a lot of potential and I see a bright future for the country. Despite the challenges and bumps, Nigeria will move on and get to the Promised Land.” In his sermon, the officiating pastor, who is the Bishop of Ogbia Diocese, Rev. James Oruwori, urged the congregation to avoid committing sin and strike a strong convenant relationship with God to be able to fight all their battles. He used the example of David and Goliath in the Bible, saying the former’s strong covenant with God gave him victory. He urged Nigerians to remain calm ahead of the upcoming general elections, adding that God had already taken a decision on the outcome. The bishop, who said no one could alter God’s decision, added, “God has written his decision on the next election, no one can change it. “He wrote the decision long ago. Election is the biggest thing we are expecting this year, we must stop exhibiting fear. We should be calm and abide by God’s decision.” Present at the service were Governor Seriake Dickson; his wife, Dr Rachael Dickson; deputy governor, John Jonah; chaplain of Villa chapel, Rev Obiona Owuzurumba and other presidential aides.