Nigeria still in crisis of nationhood – Jonathan

President Goodluck Jonathan says despite the achievements of Nigeria in her 54 years of independence, the nation still faces a crisis of nationhood.The president, in a national broadcast on Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary this morning, acknowledged that the country was in a sober moment. He said the crisis of nationhood facing Nigeria was occasioned by […]

President Goodluck Jonathan says despite the achievements of Nigeria in her 54 years of independence, the nation still faces a crisis of nationhood.
The president, in a national broadcast on Nigeria’s 54th independence anniversary this morning, acknowledged that the country was in a sober moment.

He said the crisis of nationhood facing Nigeria was occasioned by unprecedented terrorist activities in the country.

The president regretted that the terrorists had maimed and killed many Nigerians.

He commended the security forces’ counter-terrorism efforts, saying his administration would continue to support them to deal a devastating blow on the insurgents.

Jonathan, who sought the support of all Nigerians for the federal government and the security agencies, said his government was committed to making the country safe for all.

He asked the insurgents to lay down their arms and urged those with genuine grievances to embrace dialogue.

The president described the just concluded national conference as the nation’s greatest centenary that must be cherished.

He pledged that his administration would continue to build a democratic structure anchored on free and fair elections.

Jonathan warned against political violence, saying the contest for power must not translated into destruction of the polity.

The president, who implored Nigerians to live together in love and peace, expressed optimism that the nation would get better.