The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has tasked Nigerians on peaceful coexistence, just as it felicitates with themon the occasion of New Year celebration.
A statement by the President of the Association, Ladi Bala on Saturday, said “the year 2021 no doubt posed some challenges owing to insecurity and the economic down turn that forced most of the people to experience some measures of hardship.”
She observed that “Nigeria as a nation was not spared of global melt down occasioned by the COVID-19 pandemic that threatened the survival of most nations.
“The New Year is here thus, the need for more commitment towards a better Nigeria by all concerned. It is our fervent prayers that Nigeria shall surely overcome its present challenges. As Nigerians, we should as part of nation building take it as a collective responsibility to make things work for the collective good of all.
“It is in this wise that NAWOJ calls on Nigerians to remain steadfast and demonstrate more patriotism as well as shun divisive tendencies and all forms of bigotry but should focus on building a better and greater nation of our dreams where every one is recognised and appreciated.
“The Year 2022 should serve as a defining one towards the build up to 2023 general elections.
“Against this backdrop, it is pertinent to call on political parties and gladiators to be more sensitive to the yearnings and aspirations of the people and soul of the nation by sticking to the rules of the games and work towards a more united Nigeria.
“NAWOJ also wishes to use this opportunity to appeal to Journalists to work more towards entrenching an effective political culture and acceptable processes preparatory to the transition of power in 2023.
“The road to a credible political process starts now with critical stakeholders making the needed commitment and sacrifices in the interest of all.
“It is on this note that NAWOJ calls on government at all levels to give governance a human face by implementing programmes and policies that will take Nigerians and Nigeria out of the woods of poverty and economic doldrums,” the statement reads.