The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor has felicitated with members of the Armed forces of Nigeria on the occasion of Easter celebrations.
The message is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Defence Information, Brig.-Gen. Tukur Gusau, on Friday in Abuja.
Irabor called on all to use this period to reflect on the love of Jesus Christ for which the season was celebrated and continue to manifest love for the country in all dispositions.
He urged all Nigerians to continue to pray to the Lord for more successes in military operations, and smooth democratic transition in the nation.
Irabor thanked members of the armed forces for making the nation proud in various operations at home and abroad.
He used the festive period to appreciate the noble role played by the military in the just concluded general elections.
The CDS reaffirmed the loyalty and commitment of the armed forces to the President, Commander-in-Chief and the Constitution of the Federal Republic.
“We pledge to continue to respect and protect the constitution and democratic governance in the country,” he said.
Similarly, Gov. Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State has urged Christian faithful in the state to pray for leaders and the continued peace, progress and healing of the nation.
This is contained in a goodwill message issued by Ismaila Uba-Misilli, Director-General (DG), Press Affairs Government House on Friday in Gombe.
Yahaya said the Easter period provided an opportunity for strengthening of unity of purpose, reinforcement of the bond of brotherhood and dedication in service to God and humanity as exemplified by Jesus Christ.
“I urged all Christians to pray for newly elected leaders at all levels for God to give them wisdom, understanding and knowledge as they prepare to take the mantle of leadership.
“We are indeed in need of prayers as leaders and as a country, especially at this crucial moment.
“I am optimistic that with collective commitment, sacrifice and by turning to God through prayers we shall overcome all our challenges and emerge stronger,” he said.
The governor said Easter symbolised love, sacrifice, service to God and country as well as a triumph of good over evil.
“We should always reflect on the lessons and significance of the season and demonstrate the same in our lives.
Yahaya encouraged Christians to continue to demonstrate love, promote peace and show good neighbourliness.
“I also want to urge you to remain steadfast in prayers and continue to sacrifice for the good and advancement of our dear state,“ he said.
While wishing Christian faithful a peaceful and joyous Easter celebrations, the governor urged Christian clerics to use the occasion to preach peace, tolerance and unity amongst the diverse people.