Gov. Simon Lalong of Plateau has called for constructive criticism to enable him redeem his electoral promises and deliver more democracy dividends in the state.
Lalong made the appeal on Sunday in Jos at a thanksgiving service for the two years of All Progressives Congress (APC) led government as part of activities to mark this year’s Democracy Day.
He appreciated God for his grace, strength and wisdom for the two years he has led the state.
The governor noted that with the help God and prayers of Plateau people, he and his team had recorded some modest achievements within the period.
“But we can’t score ourselves, therefore, we are organising town hall meetings to interact with the people and feel their pulse concerning our performance.
“The town hall meetings beginning tomorrow (May 29) is an avenue for the people to give us more advice on how to better govern the state.
“We are also ready to listen to criticisms from those who think we are not going the right direction,” he said.
He said that Plateau has become a model for other states to learn from because his administration’s efforts in terms of crises resolution, peace building and clearance of backlog of salaries.
Lalong commended the legislature, judiciary, security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders for their support that restored peace in the state.
Bishop Ibrahim Chindo of Methodist Church, Jos, in a homily taken from the Book of Samuel 7:7-12 highlighted the importance of thanksgiving to God.
The cleric explained that thanksgiving is first to appreciate God for what He has done and secondly to ask for more.
Chindo said that thanksgiving to God is also an expression of joy and submissiveness.
He said that what was needed in the society was a spirit of thanksgiving for the good things done to us.
“Thanksgiving can motivate and inspire God or even man to do more rather constantly harping on criticisms,’’ he said.
The Chaplain, Government House Chapel, Jos, Rev. Fr. David Ajang, also in an address that God reciprocates and rewards those who appreciate Him through thanksgiving.
Ajang said that although Plateau was their immediate constituency, but the prayer intentions during the thanksgiving was for the entire country.
He said that the thanksgiving service was an avenue to pray for the needs of the state and the country at large. (NAN)