26th July, 2014
President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday urged Nigerians to continue to brave the atrocities of terrorists and remain resolute in the defence of freedom, unity and progress of the country.
In a personally signed message to the nation on the occasion of the 2014 Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, Jonathan said Nigerians must not surrender to despair as the terrorists want.
“The observance of the holy month was sadly tainted in parts of the country with the continuing atrocities of extremists and terrorists in our midst.
“But I urge all patriotic Nigerians, to remain strong and resolute in defence of freedom, unity, law and order, peace, security and progress of the nation.
“I feel the pains and anguish of all our compatriots who have experienced the harrowing impact of terrorism unleashed on them by brainwashed and misguided agents of evil and disunity.
“We must never throw up our hands in helplessness and despair as the terrorists and purveyors of anarchy want.
“Let us all remain unwaveringly committed to showing solidarity with our Armed Forces and security agencies.
“This we can do by giving them the full support they require to prosecute the war against terrorism to a successful conclusion,” he said.
The president reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to winning the war against terror and insecurity.
He also promised on improving the living conditions of the people in all parts of the country.
“We cannot and will not be deterred from our goal of positively transforming our nation into a strong, united, progressive, stable, secure and prosperous nation.
“A nation in which all citizens will live in peace in spite of our immense diversities,” he said.
Jonathan felicitated with all Nigerians, especially Muslims, on the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and for successfully undertaking the Ramadan fast.
“As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitr, it is my hope and prayer that Ramadan’s spiritual lessons and the Holy Prophet’s teachings of peaceful co-existence will remain with us.
“May the lessons and blessings of the holy month also permeate into us all. May this season positively influence our attitudes towards our fellow countrymen and women, irrespective of their religion or places of origin.
“May it promote greater commitment to the peace, unity and stability of the nation,” he said.