By OLAYINKA LATONA

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on Nigerians to remain focused and steadfast in prayers as the nation navigates its current economic challenges.

Speaking at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) national headquarters in Ebute-Metta during the church’s Independence Thanksgiving Service and prayer for the nation, Sanwo-Olu urged citizens to be patient with President Bola Tinubu, assuring them that the hardships being faced will soon ease.

The governor noted that despite the tough times, President Tinubu is working tirelessly to ensure Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy. He emphasized the importance of faith and prayer in overcoming the nation’s difficulties, saying, “It’s been a difficult time for us as a people and as a nation. But we believe that with God, all things are possible.”

Sanwo-Olu further encouraged the congregation to continue praying for President Tinubu, describing him as a father figure and a leader who is dedicated to moving the country forward. “Through the prayers that we are offering, God will continue to give him the wisdom and knowledge to lead the nation in the right direction,” the governor added.

On the deplorable condition of roads leading to the RCCG national headquarters, Sanwo-Olu promised to address the issue, assuring residents and motorists that necessary repairs would be made. He acknowledged the poor state of the roads and committed to making improvements before the next visit.

“I want to assure you that by the time I come back next year, by the grace of God, you will see significant improvement on the roads,” he said, noting that his administration has already begun discussions to initiate the repairs. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to clean up areas around Ebute-Metta, including Oko Baba, promising further infrastructural development in various sectors, including schools, hospitals, roads, and security.

Earlier in the service, the General Overseer of RCCG, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, delivered a sermon titled Divine Wisdom, urging Nigerian students to be diligent, hardworking, and God-fearing to achieve success in life. Adeboye encouraged young people to dream big and work towards their goals with dedication and discipline, warning against the distractions of social media.

He said, “Add diligence and hard work to your intelligence, and you will reach the top. Stop wasting your time on the internet. The time for study is when you are young.”

Pastor Adeboye shared personal anecdotes about the importance of hard work, recalling lessons from his own academic journey. He emphasized the need for students to focus on their studies during their formative years, explaining that certain skills and knowledge are best acquired at a young age.

“You are sent to school to learn, and there will always be time for everything. The time for studying is now, while you are young,” Adeboye advised.