Speaking in Lokoja through his Director-General on Media and Publicity, Kingsley Fanwo, the Governor said the unity of Nigeria is “iron-cast and non-negotiable.”
The governor noted that as a youth that had been saddled with the responsibility, he owed it a duty to ensure that the country progresses and developed as a united entity.
Bello said, “I represent the youth of this great nation in governance and I have their support to continue to preach and act a united Nigeria. We are looking at the opportunities that our unity offers rather than the pains offered by division.
“Nigeria cannot afford to lose its potentials to a division. Together, we are stronger and more respected. The God that brought us together knew the strength in unity. What we need in Nigeria is good leadership and strong institutions which the present administration is already providing. We must support the President Muhammadu Buhari administration to achieve its laudable programs for the nation.”
Governor Bello said Nigerians need a “restructured mindset” to view issues from a “national point rather than parochial holes of limitations”, saying he would continue to preach against the disintegration of the nation.
According to him, “Kogi is a microcosm of a bigger Nigeria with different ethnic groups. Before my advent as the Governor of the state, the people were sharply divided along ethnic lines. But today, we have collapsed the walls of division and have integrated them into the mainstream of Kogi interest.
“Those agitating for division and disintegration are unfair to what we have built together for the past 103 years of unity and progress. I urge Nigerians to preach peace, unity, and prosperity.”
The Governor lauded the presidency, the military and the Igbo leaders for rising to the occasion to quell tension in the South East, saying the prevailing peace was due to the confidence reposed in the leadership of Buhari by the people.
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