Geoffrey Anyanwu, Awka
Irked by the loss so far recorded by the Nigerian military and other security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram and other criminal elements in Nigeria, an Anglican cleric has called for adequate monetary provision for the funding of national security.
Delivering a sermon at the Cathedral Church of Saint Faith, Awka, Anambra State capital, during a Eucharistic Service to mark the commencement of the 2018 Press Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, Rev. Canon Charles Chukwura, said adequate monetary provision would help in replacing obsolete weapons presently at the disposal of the military and other security agencies.
Rev. Chukwurah, who lamented the pains inflicted on Nigerian soldiers and other security agents by insurgents and other criminal elements, said the security operatives should be motivated in the task of protecting the territorial integrity of the country.
Speaking on journalists, the cleric described the work of journalists as critical to efficient information dissemination in the country which according to him play great role in the development of any nation.
He, therefore, charged leaders in the country to always challenge injustice in the society in other to promote truth and development.
Noting that the world all over was passing through a perilous time, he enjoined Christian faithful to accept their responsibilities as Christians and shine as light without compromising their faith.
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In his remarks, Governor Willie Obiano noted that the state has been peaceful in the last four years due to measures put in place by his government to sustain adequate security.
Governor Obiano, who was represented by Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment in the state, Mr. CDon Adinuba, applauded the roles played by the church and media workers in promoting the transformation of the state and urged the media to continue to be the watchdog of the society.
The Vicar of the Cathedral, Venerable Sam Okonkwo, noted that the work of journalists was of great important to the society and commended the State Council of NUJ for choosing to commence its annual event with a thanksgiving service.
Chairman of NUJ, Anambra State Council, Comrade Emma Ifesinachi noted that the programme was focusing on hate speech to help in taming the issue ahead of the 2019 general elections.