President Jonathan, who joined Nigerians in giving thanks to God Almighty for seeing the people through the turbulent year, assured that 2013 would be a much better year “for us and our country.”
Jonathan, said “Our objective for the year is to ensure by all possible means that more of the programmes and projects envisioned by this administration, and which are already being embarked upon, are further brought on stream within the next 12 months, to meet the yearnings of our people, and raise the quality of life.”
He declared that his administration would give priority attention in the coming year, to flood and erosion control, the rehabilitation and expansion of existing federal roads, improved power supply, as well as the continued rehabilitation, upgrading and reactivation of the national rail network.
He also said that employment generation and wealth creation would remain a primary objective of government’s socio-economic agenda for 2013.
“We have in the last year achieved a lot in terms of the positive transformation of vital sectors of our national life, such as public infrastructure, power supply, oil and gas, transportation, education, health and agricultural development.
“We will continue to work diligently in 2013 to ensure that our efforts in these areas are carried forward to full fruition in fulfillment of our promise of better public services and improved living conditions for all Nigerians.
“We will continue to provide the necessary enabling environment for the private sector to thrive”, he added.
On peace and security, Jonathan insists that it remains pre-requisite conditions for the full realization of his administration’s objectives, assuring that this year; more will be done to further empower security agencies who are working in collaborative partnerships with the international community to stem the scourge of terrorism in the country and enhance the security of lives and property nationwide.
“I also want to assure Nigerians that we will refuse to be discouraged by those who have taken it upon themselves to pick on every initiative and effort of this administration. We remain resolutely committed to the rule of law, due process and fair play in all circumstances. Our democracy continues to grow, and the scope for human freedom continues to expand. It is an achievement that we will continue to build upon”, the president said.
“I say it again; we are determined to continue to push forward. We will do more, not less. We will remain focused”, he emphasized.
The President appealed to all Nigerians to make a commitment to do more in 2013 to support the implementation of the Federal Government’s Agenda for National Transformation in every possible way.
According to the president: “The task of making our dear nation a much better place for present and future generations cannot be left to government alone. Leaders and followers alike, have critical roles to play in our march towards the fulfillment of our great national potentials.
“Let us all therefore resolve, as we celebrate the New Year, to place the higher interests of national unity, peace, stability and progress, above all other considerations, and work harder in our particular fields of endeavour to contribute more significantly to the attainment of our collective aspirations”.