Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State on Tuesday expressed optimism that the value of the naira would appreciate within the next six months.
He spoke at a special prayer session organised by the Oyo State Government for the nation and President Muhammadu Buhari at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Ibadan.
Ajimobi also said Nigerians must partner with government at all levels in tackling the various challenges confronting the country.
The governor said that Nigerians must cultivate the habit of praying for their leaders rather than cursing and abusing them.
He said that the essence of the special prayer was to seek God’s guidance for the country and improved health for the president.
“ This special prayer is also for unity, peace and prosperity of the nation,’’ he added.
In separate sermons, Prof. Daud Noibi, Sheikh Muhydeen Bello and Apostle Sunday Popoola all cautioned Nigerians on negative utterances against leaders .
Noibi, the Executive Secretary, Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria, urged leaders at the various tiers of government to imbibe the fear of God.
Popoola, the Presiding Pastor of Word Communication Ministry, admonished Nigerians to always pray for their leaders and the country.
Bello, the Missioner of Ansar-ud-deen Society, Northern Zone, cautioned Nigerians on rumour mongering, urging them to always pray and show respect to leaders.
Pastor Benjamin Akanmu, the Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, said the situation in the country required prayers.
Earlier, Alhaji Abidemi Siyanbade, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Relations, had said that the idea of the prayer session was conceived by religious leaders.
“The nation in recent times had been bedevilled by various challenges ranging from terrorism, kidnapping and vandalism to economic downturn.
“The essence of the prayer is to return the country to peace and economic prosperity.
“The gathering of our clerics here today is a reflection of the efficacy of prayer as a tool for national development or rebirth, ” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured special prayers led by Alhaji Taofeek Akewugbagold, Rev. Ademola Moradeyo, Alhaji Muritala Bada, Bishop Taiwo Adelakun and Dr Dawud Alaga.
The event was attended by the Deputy Governor, Chief Moses Adeyemo, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Michael Adeyemo, and the wife of the governor, Florence Ajimobi.
Others at the occasion were the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi, and the Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola. (NAN)
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