Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on religious leaders across the state to support his administration with prayers and to promote the message of peace within their communities.
He made this appeal during a meeting with religious leaders in the state on Wednesday at the Cocoa Conference Hall in the Governor's Office, Akure.
During the meeting, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to the religious leaders for honouring the invitation and for their ongoing support and prayers for his administration.
"Your prayers have been instrumental in maintaining the relative peace we enjoy in our state," he said.
The governor emphasised the importance of peaceful coexistence among residents and stressed the need for dialogue in resolving the current economic challenges facing the nation and its people.
"We must prioritise dialogue to address the economic challenges facing our nation and its people. In light of global economic realities, it's crucial that we increase production to help lower the high prices of commodities," he added.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also highlighted his administration's efforts to revive moribund industries in the state, especially the Ifon Ceramics and Okitipupa Oil Palm, and stressed the importance of encouraging youth involvement in agriculture.
In response, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the state, Anselm Ologunwa, expressed gratitude to the governor for organising the meeting and recognising the contributions of religious leaders.
"Thank you, Governor, for convening this meeting and for the recognition given to religious leaders. It is important that we understand the root causes of the current challenges we face. We appreciate the palliative measures provided to us and acknowledge the government's efforts in advancing our state, particularly in the area of industrial revolution," he said.
Echoing the sentiments of the CAN Chairman, the Chief Imam of Akure, Abdul Hakeem Yayi Akorede, also expressed his gratitude and support. He commended the governor for his efforts in fostering unity and peace within the state.
Akorede emphasised the importance of collaboration between religious leaders and the government in addressing the challenges faced by the community. He acknowledged the positive impact of the governor's initiatives and reassured that the Muslim community would continue to offer their prayers and support.
Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of the Ondo State Muslim Welfare Board, Alhaji Chandy Adam, called on religious leaders to help spread the message against protests and to support Governor Aiyedatiwa's administration in implementing more life-changing programmes and policies.
In attendance were Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu; and SSA to the Governor on Community Engagement (Central), Femi Fadairo.
