Lagos experienced steady economic growth while Nigeria slipped into recession – Ambode
…urges Lagosians to brace up for more milestone development in 2018
Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State has said the state experienced stable economic growth while the nation slipped into recession in 2017.
The governor attributed this to the prayers offered by the state to God at the beginning of every year since the inception of his administration Grace of God
Ambode also assured residents that the state will experience more development milestones in 2018.
The governor spoke on Sunday at the 2018 annual thanksgiving service at the Lagos House in Ikeja, the capital.
At the service, with the theme: Ceaseless Praise, Ambode noted that despite several economic and security challenges in some parts of the country, Lagos had continued to experience peace and prosperity.
He attributed the steady progress to divine intervention and the grace of God.
The governor hoped that the state would record more landmark achievements this year.
Ambode said: “Since the inception of this administration, we have been calling on God at the beginning of each year and our prayers have been prophetic as He always granted our desires beyond our expectations. At a time when the nation was in recession, our state was experiencing economic growth, and while there was insecurity in other places, Lagos remains calm and peaceful. This is not as a result of what the government has done but by the special grace of God. And all we need to do is continue to give Him praise and thanksgiving and He will continue to bless and provide for us as Lagosians and a state.
“In this New Year, we submit to Him again. I am confident that irrespective of whatever is happening elsewhere, our state and all our people will continue to excel in peace, good health, prosperity, love and joy. God will continue to shower His blessings on us as a state and our families, and homes will experience new and wonderful milestones by His grace.”
According to him, the annual thanksgiving presents an opportunity to commit the state to God by acknowledging His supreme power.
Ambode said: “It is my prayer that as we come to His gates and courts with thanksgiving and with praises today, He will release His blessings upon us, guide and direct our path and lead us through the year successfully.”
The governor expressed appreciation to the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and his wife, Pastor Folu, as well as other religious leaders for their prayers and support for the state since inception of his administration.
He said: “I offer my sincere gratitude to all our religious leaders for your presence and continued support for the peace and progress of Nigeria and Lagos in particular. God bless you all.”
Pastor Adeboye urged Nigerians to draw closer to God.
The cleric assured them that when they do so, they will continue to enjoy special favour and blessings from God.
Other dignitaries at the service include the governor’s wife, Bolanle; first civilian Governor, Alhaji Lateef Jakande; his wife, Abimbola and Chief Judge of Lagos, Justice Opeyemi Oke.
Others are: Chief Rasak Okoya, Prof Pat Utomi, Police Commissioner Imohimi Edgal, Senator Ganiyu Solomon, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Pastor Ituah Ighodola, Rev Adebola Ademowo and Bishop Mike Okonkwo.
