Lagos @50: Ambode lauds harmonious relationship among religious, ethnic groups

The Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, on Sunday attributed the peace and stability in the State to the harmonious relationship and peaceful co-existence among diverse ethnic and religious groups in the State.
Speaking at a special thanksgiving service held at Lagos House in Ikeja to mark the Golden Jubilee anniversary of the State as well as the second-year anniversary of his administration, Ambode said the State has also been blessed with visionary leaders who have worked hard to chart the path for growth and development of the State from inception.
The Governor said it was on record that over the years, the State has grown in leaps and bounds and had become home to all citizens of the world and most importantly a place where hope comes alive and dreams are actualized, attributing the development to the tireless efforts of the people and the mercies of God.
He said: “Lagos has enjoyed peace and stability as a result of the harmonious relationship and peaceful co-existence of diverse ethnic and religious groups across the State. Most importantly, it has been blessed with great visionary leaders, who worked so hard to chart the path for the growth and development of our State from its creation till date.
“This was the Lagos we all were privileged to grow up in; the Lagos that has given us the opportunity to be what we are today and the Lagos I am honoured to lead at this auspicious moment.
“I want to appreciate God for His mercies, compassion, grace and blessings on the State thus far. I thank God for the citizens of the State, who through their selfless services have all contributed in no small measure to the enviable status the State has attained.”
Ambode added that as the State continues the journey of another 50 years, his prayer was that God would not forsake it and would continue to raise leaders with vision, character and ability to take Lagos State to a position of eminence in the comity of modern City States.
Besides, he thanked all Lagosians and the Lagos@50 Celebration Committee for their contributions to the success of the year-long celebration of creation of the State.
In his sermon at the service, the Senior Pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre, Matthew Ashimolowo, said for the State to occupy its pride of place and accelerate development in the coming years, leadership of the State must work hard and aim high.
Speaking on the theme: “Pressing Unto Greater Heights,” Ashimolowo said for the State to move forward and attain excellence in all ramifications, achievements of the past must be put behind, while greater efforts are made to focus on breaking new grounds.
He commended Governor Ambode for his giant strides in all sectors and sections especially the Light Up Lagos Initiative, construction of roads and bridges with particular reference to those of Abule Egba and Ajah, saying that the infrastructures have greatly reduced travel time.
Moving forward, the clergyman, who picked his text from Philippians 3: 14, said efforts must be geared towards forging ahead, especially in doing things that others thought would not be possible and finishing strong.
Among notable men of God who graced the service were the National Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Joseph Obayemi; his wife, Pastor Folu; the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria, South West, Rev. Magnus Adeyemi Atilade; the Lagos State Chairman of CAN, Apostle Alex Bamgbola; Baba Aladura, Pastor Akin Adewo; and the Very Rev. Ayo Olu Oyadotun.