Soludo, Archbishop Ibezim speak on freedom, leadership and Nigeria’s future
By Ejike Abana | Ichie Times
Governor Chukwuma Soludo and the Archbishop of the Niger and Bishop of Awka, Most Reverend Alexander Ibezim, have called for responsible leadership, accountability and collective action as essential ingredients for national development.
They made the call during an interdenominational thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church of St. Faith, Awka, attended by top government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries.
The state delegation included Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze; Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake; Head of Service, Barrister Ngozi Iwouno; mayors, lawmakers, members of the State Executive Council and security commanders.
Speaking at the service, Governor Soludo said nation building required the collective responsibility, resilience and active participation of every citizen.
He condoled with the family of Success Ezenwafor, who lost his life in a recent flooding incident in Anambra, and called for urgent collective action to address flooding and erosion.
The Governor stressed that unity, dedication to duty and faith in the future were essential to national development, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to development, peace and good governance in the state.
In a sermon titled From Bondage to Freedom, God’s Purpose for Nigeria, Archbishop Ibezim said true independence went beyond the raising of national flags, stressing that genuine freedom meant allowing people to determine their own path and destiny.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, the cleric said governments and leaders would come and go, but the nation would endure, urging those in leadership to remain accountable and give their best in service.
He also lamented the decline of the country’s agricultural sector from the prosperity it enjoyed before independence.
Despite the challenges, Archbishop Ibezim expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, urging citizens to speak positively about the country, pray for its progress and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
He stressed that personal integrity remained fundamental to national integrity.
