Yar’Adua seeks Nigerians’ support

01.06.2008

President Umaru Yar'Adua, Saturday in Zaria, urged Nigerians to join hands with his administration to develop the country.

He made the call while laying the foundation for the late Dr. Bala Usman Centre for Democratic Development, Research and Training in Zaria.

“There are many challenges ahead of the nation which need real commitment and dedication from Nigerians'', he said.

The president said that without national development planning and serious commitment, no meaningful development could take place in any nation.

Yar'Adua described late Usman as one of the nation's heroes who would never be forgotten.

"Late Dr Bala Usman was dedicated, honest and a statesman who had understanding on humanity, justice and trust.

“And with time, his ideas will continue to remain in the minds of the coming generations", he said.

Yar'Adua said he was in Zaria to respect and honour late Usman and to identify himself with the centre.

He said he would do whatever was possible to contribute to the development of the centre.

Earlier, Governor Namadi Sambo of Kaduna State said that Usman's ideas would continue to guide spirited leaders.

He, however, expressed regret that over 70 per cent of Nigerians were living below the poverty level.

Sambo expressed the hope that by the end of this year, the economy of the country ``will see the light of development.''

On his part, Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Shema, said the state government had earmarked N73.4 million for the late Dr. Bala Usman Professorial Chair at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria.

Shema was represented by Alhaji Gide Musa, a senior state government official.