Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has expressed optimism that Nigeria will remain one indivisible entity, asking citizens to stop prophesying doom about the nation.

Governor Abiodun said the country has proven to be an enigma by defying all predictions by pundits that it would not survive, adding that “Nigeria has always wriggled out of the most difficult situation better.

Abiodun’s comment is coming at a time when some groups are calling for secession from the Nigerian nation.

But, Abiodun maintained that Nigeria has survived many vicissitudes; and despite its numerous economic and security challenges, the country is still together, adding that it would move forward more prosperously.

The Governor spoke on Sunday at the Special Church Service to mark the 60th National Day Celebration, held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peters, Ake, Abeokuta.

According to him, “the task ahead is a collective one. We shouldn’t allow prophecies of doom to define us. With prayers and given the human and material resources available, believe that things would get better.”

Governor Abiodun stated that many countries that gained independence with Nigeria are no longer together, stressing that “they have either been balkanized by their internal realities or civil war.”

While appreciating God that the nation is still together, he noted, “Despite all predictions, Nigeria is still standing. Our diversity is our strength. We are a resilient and confident people. We surmounted the Civil war, Boko Haram.

“Tomorrow will bring the best in us. All we need to do is to work together. Nigeria will move forward. We must not prophesy doom. Nation-building is not for government alone, but the responsibility of all.”

Abiodun was hopeful that the country would continue to grow stronger as the democracy it currently enjoys continues to fledge, urging the citizenry to continue praying and remain united “as the future of the country is looking good.”

In his sermon, the Retired Primate, Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Peter Akinola, decried the state of bloodletting in the country, saying that for the nation to experience development, efforts must be made to stop bloodletting, while the people must repent of their sins.

Akinola, who touched on Ezekiel 22:3-6, opined that no land full of blood could move forward.

He called for repentance and tendering of apologies to the families of those who lost their loved ones as a result of killings.

The event was attended by Ogun top government functionaries, traditional leaders among others.