Nigeria Will Move Forward, Says Jonathan

THE Federal Government has said it would leave Nigeria a better place than it met it and would not be deterred by antagonists.

President Jonathan stated this yesterday at the graduation of the Senior Executive Course 33 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) Kuru near Jos.

Represented by Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo, Jonathan said the present administration condemns all acts of violence against innocent people, and that government is resolved to tackle the menace head on.

“Nigeria is a peaceful place with hospitable people. Our compatriots are making their marks all over the world. I assure you that Nigeria will soon be at par with the greatest tourist attractions of the world, and even the most cherished business and tourist nation in Africa,” he said.

He commended the leadership of NIPSS for redeeming the image of the institute within a short time, expressing satisfaction at its facelift and strides in academics.

He assured the 66 graduating participants that their recommendations would be looked into seriously for implementation.

The President said that the country could be transformed into a great nation with the excellent presentation the participants made when they visited Aso Villa in Abuja.

He assured the management of NIPSS that government would continue to support the institute, adding that having listened to complaints by the Acting Director-General of NIPSS, Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, government would assist the institute.

He stated that with the establishment of NIPSS, there is hope of a united, self-reliant and strong nation.

The Director-General of NIPSS, who said the management has confidence in the outgoing participants, disclosed that three colonels among the participants were promoted Brigadiers-General. Among them is the former Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Chris Olukolade.

Those present included Governor Jonah Jang; NLC President, Abdulwaheed Omar; Lt-Gen. Joshua Dogonyaro; Senator Joshua Dariye; Senator Gyang Dantong; Minister of Water Resources, Mrs. Sarah Reng Ochekpe; Rep. Bitrus Kaze and Speaker John Clark Dabwan of the state House of Assembly, among others.

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By Isa Abdulsalami, Jos