Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has attributed the minimal effect of COVID-19 on Lagos State, being the epicentre of the virus on Nigerians, to the divine intervention of God, saying that his administration will continue to put machinery in place to contain the effect of the virus.
Speaking at a Thanksgiving Service to commemorate the 60th Independence Anniversary of Nigeria, Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his wife, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, enjoined Nigerians not to relent in offering prayers to God for total victory over the COVID-19 pandemic challenges.
“We give glory to God for the improvement we are recording in terms of the decreasing numbers of COVID-19; we do not take this special grace for granted. The fact that we are still standing as one despite the challenges we have faced in the past can only be attributed to the faithfulness and the mercy of the Almighty God”, Sanwo-Olu said.
He reiterated the need for Lagosians and indeed Nigerians to continue to take personal responsibility for their health by observing all the guidelines and protocols including physical distancing, use of face mask and regular hand washing among others.
The Governor also used the occasion to acknowledge the ceaseless prayers offered by various spiritual leaders in the State, stressing that the prayers have been very beneficial to the nation and Lagos State.
“The prayers of the saints availeth much. I have no doubt in my mind that as we cry unto God for a healthier and promising future for our nation and our State, He will surely answer us”, Mr. Governor stated.
He sermonised that the Diamond jubilee celebration of the country signifies beauty in Lagos State and the country at large while calling on the Almighty God to continue to guide, direct and lead the nation aright as well as release His blessings upon us.
In his words, “I enjoin us to use this opportunity to rededicate ourselves to the unity of this nation and continue to live peacefully with one another in love; support government policies and programmes aimed at moving our nation and State to greater heights, remain steadfast, hopeful, focused, disciplined and pray without ceasing”.
He, however, gave the assurance that the present administration will continue to deliver the dividends of democracy and remain focused on implementing the administration’s agenda for the growth, development and prosperity of the entire citizens.
Earlier in his sermon, Rev. (Dr.) Sam Aboyeji, the General Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church admonished Nigerians on the need to show gratitude to God for all he has done in the past for Nigeria, especially during critical times.
While enjoining Nigerians to humbly return to God for the forgiveness of sin and wickedness in order for the nation to experience peace and progress, Aboyeji declared that God’s promised restoration is total, extra and enduring, hence Nigeria and Lagos State, in particular, should expect divine turnaround and restoration from the economic downturn occasioned by the Coronavirus pandemic.
The Thanksgiving Service was also attended by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, the Honourable Commissioner for Home Affairs, Prince Anofiu Elegushi, the representative of the Head of Service and the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mr. Samuel Ajibade, the body of Permanent Secretaries and COWLSO officials among others.
