BY VINCENT UJUMADU

AWKA – ANAMBRA State governor, Mr. Peter Obi yesterday appraised the 13 years of the country’s democracy, describing the period as challenging and promising.

Speaking with newsmen, Obi said Nigerians were understandably eager to see that the country emerged as one of the great nations of the world, but observed that neither development nor democracy was a one-stop journey.

He said: “We have made gains since the emergence of the present democratic process in 1999 and indeed in the past one year, which are worthy of celebration. The fact that there are still areas of unfulfilled aspirations did not render our progress meaningless. Not even the so-called developed countries have stopped developing as they are still engaged in the task of transforming their societies”.

“The people and government of Anambra State therefore join other Nigerians to congratulate President Goodluck Jonathan and ourselves at the turn of another year of democratic rule. It has been a fruitful year that has seen Mr. President taking necessary, but sometimes, difficult decisions towards the well-being of our country and people. I have no doubt in my mind that these decisions will eventually launch Nigeria into sustainable growth and unity.”

Obi called on Nigerians to contribute their quota in the current efforts at good governance, economic prosperity and social security.

He expressed happiness at the on-going work at Enugu International Airport and the assurances that work would soon start on the second Niger Bridge, and called on Nigerians to support the President as he works assiduously towards surmounting the challenges facing the country.

Meanwhile, Governor  Obi has commended the contributions of the out-going Archbishop of Lagos, Anthony Cardinal Okogie, saying under his leadership, Lagos Archdiocese recorded a phenomenal growth in both physical and spiritual terms.

In a statement, Obi said Okogie’s informed and bold commentaries on socio-political issues helped to advance positive national consciousness.

He recalled that as an Archbishop of Lagos Cardinal Okogie headed the prestigious Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria and the Christian Association of Nigeria – CAN, from 1994 –2000, a period, he observed, Okogie proved himself a true apostle of Christ by the apostolic zeal with which he faced his responsibilities.

The governor assured the Cardinal of continued prayer for the peace of God to remain with him throughout his life in retirement.

Meanwhile, the governor has congratulated the newly appointed Archbishop of Lagos, Bishop Adewale Martins and expressed optimism that he would give a good account of himself as he did as the Bishop of Abeokuta Diocese.