“Don’t Lose Hope In Nigeria Project “- Former Police IG, Okiro Pleads

By Folorunso Alagbede

Former Inspector-General of Police, Sir (Dr) Mike Okiro has stressed the need for the building of a nation that stands for justice, equity and love for all irrespective of race, politics, religion and personal interests.

Okiro, who is also the Board Chairman of JusticeNOW International, popularly known as NigeriaFIRST Foundation, insisted that it was imperative for all to join in building a nation that truly reflects the teachings of an ideal nation.

The retired IGP, in a statement personally signed by him and made available to the media in Abuja, appealed to Nigerian citizens, all over the world, not to loose hope in the Nigeria Project despite challenges.

He equally registered solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and enjoined all Nigerians to join hands with him (the President) in the task of moving Nigeria forward.

Dr Okiro said, “As we embark on this journey of discovery and understanding, let us do so with open minds and compassionate hearts.

“Let us build a nation that truly reflects the teachings of an ideal nation.

“A nation that stands for justice, equity and love for all irrespective of race, politics, religion and personal interests”, he said.

He recalled a media parley he had in October last year where he emphasized for Nigerians globally not to loose hope in the Nigeria Project despite challenges.

As part of activities lined up for the celebration of the nation’s 64th Independence anniversary, Okiro disclosed that JusticeNOW International – a Pro Human Rights and Good Governance Organisation has scheduled a National solidarity award and campaign tagged NigeriaFIRST™️ Honors Awards, which is dedicated President Bola Tinubu as well as past Presidents of the country (living and dead).

The JusticeNOW International, according to the former IGP, has identified some outstanding Nigerians and friends of Nigeria for honours awards 2024.

Among the personalities slated for the honours’ awards are; sixteen serving Governors and some outstanding Nigerians and friends of Nigeria at home and in the Diaspora.

Among the Governors are; Dr. Alex Oti of Abia State; Sir Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers State; Pastor Umo Eno, Akwa-Ibom State; Dr. Peter Mbah, Enugu State; Sen. Hope Odidika Uzodinma, Imo State; Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, Cross River State; Mr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, Plateau State; and Alhaji Babagana Umara Zulum, Borno State.

Others are; Mr. Agbu Kefas, Taraba State; Engr. Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, Oyo State; Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State; Right Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State; Senator Bala Mohammed, Bauchi State; Senator Ademola Adeleke, Osun State and Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, Kano State.

In the words of Okiro, “This is to appreciate our collective zeal and untiring efforts to make Nigeria great despite the challenges.

“The occasion which is marking Nigeria at 64 and JusticeNOW International at 5, promises to engage great leaders to inspire young people (particularly the ones in Secondary schools) to become patriotic and innovative.