By John Ugo
Nigeria’s First Lady and wife of the President, Mrs. Aisha Muhammadu Buhari, has apologized to Nigerians for the nation’s worrisome state of insecurity since the past seven years.
Also, she sympathized with the poor citizenry over the prevailing harsh economic situation that has made life and living very difficult.
Speaking during 62nd Independence Day Special Juma’at prayer and Public Lecture with the theme “Shura: The Islamic Foundation of True Democracy” held on Friday at the National Mosque Conference Hall, Abuja, Aisha Buhari further urged Nigerians to pray for a successful 2023 elections.
She expresses appreciation to the country’s military for the efforts at containing the nation’s security challenges and appealed to them not to deter but to succeed.
The First Lady pointed out that the noticeable depreciation of the Naira and continuous drop in the foreign exchange rate have taken their toll on the economy.
She attributed the down ward trend in the Naira and other economic woes to the apparent hardships staring Nigerians in the face as well as backwardness in the education and health sectors and ther areas of life.
“Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, as you may be aware that this government is making its exit and perhaps witnessing the last anniversary of the regime, I pray for Nigerians to pray for a successful election and transition programme.”
“The regime might not have been a perfect one, but I want to seize this opportunity to seek forgiveness from the Ulamas and Nigerians in general. We all need to work together to achieve a better Nigeria.”
“Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, it is also noticeable that our Naira is being evaluated and the foreign exchange rate has affected our economy causing a lot of hardship and difficulties in terms of education, health and other day-to-day activities of our citizens.”
“We must unite and fight against security challenges. While the efforts of the government are well appreciated, it is important to know that many programmes have been put in places such as agriculture, entrepreneurship, and engagement of youth and women to cushion the effects and provide alternatives.
“I through my Aisha Buhari and Future Assured Foundation have put in place deliberate efforts and programmes focused on improving the quality of women, youth and children. Through this effect, I have empowered many communities. I appreciate all my partners and collaborators, the wives of the governors, the wives of service chiefs, my associates, well-wishers, and international bodies, that is development partners, I thank them all.”
“I’m particularly happy that our security agents have stood up to the challenges of security more than ever before. And at the moment, their efforts have been pushing the effects of banditry, kidnapping and many other ills in society.”
“I commend the efforts of our gallant security men and women and I want to pray for more successes in their operations,” she added.
