Kwara State Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed, yesterday urged Nigerians not to be discouraged by the current intimidating challenges threatening the country's democracy.
He was optimistic that the challenges are temporary setbacks that would make the country's resilience stronger.
The governor spoke this in Ilorin, the state capital, at the occasion of the 2013 Democracy Day celebration and the second anniversary of his administration.
He said: "As we look back at the last 14 years and reflect on our current situation, some may be discouraged by the challenges that threaten to overshadow our democracy
"I wish to state with all emphasis that our resilience is stronger. We will overcome these temporary setbacks.
"As I speak, thousands are gathered across the country to hear their leaders extol the gains of democracy. Some will recount their successes; others will focus on the challenges that currently confront us as a people.
"Like us, some will choose to celebrate their strengths and look to the future with optimism. "As someone who recognises the supremacy of the people in our democratic experience, I choose to celebrate you, the good people of Kwara State for your unalloyed support and for keeping the faith.
"In that mode, I look forward with you to a brighter future. A future filled with peace, equity and prosperity for us all."
National Mirror
That is how it really is in whatever we do in life. We have to always face challenges but we must be strong still....
There are surely so many challenges in that state and I hope they would be able to correct them as soon as possible.