President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday, May 22, 2015 announced that he would dedicate his time to meeting religious and ethnic leaders across the nation in order to foster peace in the country, owing to his strong belief that Nigerians can only practice their chosen religion in an atmosphere of peace.
President Jonathan made the revelation shortly after he was presented the 2015 Epitome of Peace Award by the Field Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Federal Capital Territory Field, Apostle John Buzu, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said: “To whom much is given, much is expected. For you to honour me today, you have given me another mandate to work harder to ensure that we, as Nigerians, continue to live in peace.
“One thing I have decided I will do after leaving office is to be talking to faithful of all religions – Christians, Muslims and other religions – on the need for Nigerians to live in peace.
“This is because when there is crisis in any part of the country, nobody can practise his own religion. If there is crisis anywhere, people cannot go to the mosque; they cannot go to the church.
“We need peace in this country, no matter our religious persuasion or belief. That will be one of my main commitments when I leave office. I believe I will have so many apostles that will follow me to do that.”
He went on to thank the church for giving him the award, adding that they will be unique additions to his presidential museum.
President Jonathan said: “I am grateful for the insignia given to me. The plaque, the medal and the dress are quite unique. They will be very conspicuous in my presidential museum or library so that even after 50 years, people will still see and appreciate what you have done today even if I have left this world and have gone beyond.”
