Former President, Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Hadjia Fatimah Abdul-Kareem has tasked Nigerians on the need to intensify the promotion of unity, resilience and love in the new year.
The Texas, United States of America-based professional in a statement made available to PMParrot over the weekend also urged Nigerians to further boost the spirit of collaboration and compassion.
Said Abdul-Kareem: “As we bid farewell to a challenging year and welcome a new one, I want to extend my heartfelt greetings and well wishes to each and every Nigerian, young and old; home and abroad.
“More than ever before in the recent history of our country, the year 2023 brought unprecedented hardships on average Nigerians at home, particularly the less-privileged; but also revealed our people’s indomitable spirit of humanity and capacity to endure and rise above adversity.
“Looking back on the trials and tribulations the nation faced towards the 2023 general elections, I am humbled by the resilience displayed by Nigerian communities nationwide. It is a testament to our strength and a showcase of God’s blessing on our nation to always stand firm and emerge stronger above challenges.
“The travails of 2023 have taught us that unity and togetherness are more important than ever. That no nation can overcome obstacles in disunity; as nation-building requires collective effort, understanding, and tolerance.
“Now, as we enter the new year, let us carry this invaluable lesson with us – to further boost the spirit of collaboration and compassion among our diverse ethnic nationalities. Let us pledge to foster an environment where diversity is celebrated, where empathy guides our actions, and where inclusivity is the norm. By standing together as one, we can surmount any adversity that comes our way.
“Through our various political choices, we have put governments in place at various levels from Local to the Federal Government. Now, more than ever, we must hold onto hope and support the government at all levels, as well as be more patriotic to our country than ever before. Hope fuels our determination to overcome obstacles, to chase after dreams, and to build a brighter future together as a nation.
“Let us ignite the flame of hope within our hearts and share it with others, inspiring them to believe in the power of a better tomorrow.
“In the wake of dastard killings in Plateau State, and the spate of insecurity in Nigeria generally, I call on the President and Commander-in-Chief of Nigerian Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the entire Nigeria’s security apparatus to be far more proactive going forward.
“It is highly crucial to be more vigilant and committed to the safety of lives and properties of the people, to ensure peace, security and stability of Nigeria at large.
“I commiserate with the people of Plateau State, especially the communities and families of the victims. In the same vein, I sympathise with the people of Kaduna State, especially the communities and families of the victims of the unfortunate drone strike in the hands of Nigerian Army that left hundreds dead and families bereaved.
“I pray for the repose of the souls of the victims in the two incidents and similar incidents around the country, while seeking the face of God to give the families, relatives and friends they all left behind and Nigeria as a nation; the fortitude to bear the loss.
“On this special occasion, I extend my sincerest best wishes to the first citizen, President Bola Tinubu and the entire citizens of Nigeria, everywhere on earth. Together, let us step into the new year with hope in our hearts, unity in our actions, and resilience in the face of adversity. May 2024 be a year of healing, growth, and the beginning of a brighter future for Nigeria”.
Packaged by Alice Egbedele
