Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umaru Bago has urged residents of the state to embrace peace, be tolerant of other religions and shun all forms of violence that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.
Bago made the call at the state’s gospel music concert tagged “Shout”, 2023 held at the Justice Idris Legbo Kutigi Conference Centre, Minna.
He noted with concern how people have over the years, allowed themselves to be divided along religious lines while describing the event as a platform to spread the gospel of unity and peace through music.
Bago commended the organizers for the initiative, saying it would not only promote religious harmony amongst the followers of the two major religions but further increase bonding among them.
He said, ” I am here today for thanksgiving to God. I came here last year SHOUT to seek your support and you gave it to me and I have come back to say thank you”
Bago assured the convener of the event of the government’s continuous support while promising to convert the Trade Fair Complex Minna to a Square to provide a more accommodating venue for next year’s “Shout”.
He also assured the people of his administration’s commitment to ending insecurity in the state.
Governor Umaru Bago then urged the people to support the present administration in the realization of the “New Niger”, devoid of religious, tribal or gender sentiments.
The Governor attended the programme in the company of his Deputy, Yakubu Garba, Chief of Staff, Abdullahi Usman Gbatamangi and other top government officials.
Recall that Governor Umaru Bago, during his campaign last year, attended “Shout” where he solicited votes from those at the event and promised to return for Thanksgiving this year.
The resident Pastor of House on the Rock, Minna, Pastor Peter Rock is the convener of “Shout”.
The event which attracted thousands of worshippers, featured various gospel singers from within and outside Nigeria.
