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MINNA – Nigeria’s former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), has lamented the precarious socio-economic and political challenges bedeviling the country, adding however, that prayers of Nigerians have kept the nation alive till today.
Babangida spoke when he received the leadership of Christian community in Niger state, and called for sustained prayers by religious bodies, Christians and Muslims in particular for divine intervention to avert further deterioration of the situation capable of ending Nigeria’s existence.
Former President Ibrahim Babangida, still in the euphoria of his 84th birthday celebration, thanked the Bishop Bulus Dauwa Yohanna led Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Niger state for the visit and as well praying for his general wellbeing.
Babangida told the state CAN Chairman who led other executive members to visit and pray for him at his hilltop residence, Uphill, Minna as he turned 84th that prayers by Christians and Muslims in Nigeria is what is keeping the country together till now.
“I really appreciate you (CAN), for your earnest prayers. I must tell you that the prayers of both Christians and Muslims have been very effective and that is what is still keeping this country till now”.
“I urge you adherents of Christian faith and the Muslims to maintain the friendship and religious harmony in the overall interests of Nigeria as a country and her citizenry”.
Babangida whovcalled for more cordial relationship among the diverse religious groups said, “I want you to sustain already existing cordial relationship because it is very important for the betterment of our country’s development”.
Though heterogeneous, Banangida said the unity and continued existence of the most populous black nation in the world lies in the hands of Nigerian Christians and Muslims.
The state CAN Chairman of CAN, who is also the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese commended former President Babangida for being a role model that younger generations will continue to tap from his wealth of experience as not only one of Nigeria’s finest pillars of support but enriched by the show of love and admiration to everyone.
The CAN chairman who spoke through his Deputy, Rev. Joshua Markus said Gen Babangida’s remarkable vision and contributions resonate across various sectors, and prayed that Almighty God grant him good health and fulfilment in the years to come.