Mr Mohammed Badaru, the Minister of Defence, has urged Nigerians to continue praying for an end to the security challenges tearing the country apart.
He made the appeal on Thursday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from Jigawa State government.
The delegation was led by the executive governor of Jigawa State, Mr Umar Namadi.
Badaru said that with the complex nature of the security challenges and other aspects of national development, “one could only ask for prayers to succeed”.
The minister while expressing strong hope in combating the security challenges, called for the support and prayers of all Nigerians, in order to entrench peace and stability in the country.
Meanwhile, the Jigawa governor, who led traditional rulers, religious leaders, the business community, and public office holders from the state, said that the purpose of the visit was to congratulate the minister and assure him of their support at all times.
“It is not only to say congratulations but also to pray for you. We know how you succeeded as governor of our state. We also pray for you to achieve the same or even more in this new task as the Minister of Defence,” Mr Namadi said.
He reminded the minister that Nigerians have high expectations that he would prioritise and deal with insecurity in the country, adding, “Once you can do this, it covers every aspect of the nation.”
“We are lucky that we are peaceful in Jigawa, but that does not mean that we don’t need your assistance; we also need your assistance as you help other states”.