Clerics, scholars, others task Nigerians on integrity, hard work

• CAN, PFN charge FG on insecurity, poverty
Clerics and scholars yesterday called on Nigerians to do things that would uplift the country and leave good legacies that the younger generation of Nigerians would be proud of.

They made the call during the public presentation of ‘Hallmarks of Labour’, Volume 8 at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIA) in Lagos.

The book, written by Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, features Anthony Cardinal Olubunmi Okogie, Ambassador Olu Adeniji and Prof. Itsejuwa Sagay- three Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in their chosen careers.

Reviewer of the book, Head, Department of International Politics, NIA, Prof. Osita Agbu, said Nigeria was the only country whose national dailies regularly carry corruption stories on their front pages, saying this does not speak well of the nation as it leaves the impression that all Nigerians were corrupt.

Agbu noted that the book would not only show the outside world that there are honest and hard working Nigerians, but would also make the younger generation to embrace the core values of integrity, hard work and discipline.

Emeritus Professor Akinkugbe told The Guardian that a book showcasing role models like the trio “would make the younger generation to go back to our value system, keep to our core values of honesty, discipline, hard work and respect.”

Otuedon-Arawore said the thirst for instilling core moral values in the younger generation was her driving force in compiling the book, noting that it would serve as a yardstick for a better society.

“The eight series of Hallmarks of Labour focuses on men and women of distinction who by dint of hard work and moral uprightness have done Nigeria proud and I think our youth should emulate them,” she said.

Responding to the honour, Adeniji said: “Iam grateful for listing me as a role model in diplomatic service. I will contribute to the credible work of Hallmark of Labour Foundation and other efforts of the author.”

Prof. Sagay said: “I am surprised to be elevated to the level of titans that have been listed before us. I never thought I would be on a level of achievement of this caliber. I accept this because of the seriousness, integrity and commitment of the Hallmark Foundation.

“It is difficult to do something for free without thinking of the motives behind it. I thank Uncle Sam Amuka for what he is doing with the Vanguard and for assisting our foundation. I thank Lady Maiden Ibru, publisher of The Guardian for sending a representative, a senior executive and other crew members to the event,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) yesterday urged the Federal Government to probe the sources of weapons being used by Fulani herdsmen to kill scores of Nigerians with a view to stopping their criminal activities and bringing culprits to book.

National Secretary of CAN, Rev. Musa Asake said this at the ongoing 104th annual session of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) in Abuja.

Also, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) expressed worries over the security challenges in the country, the increasing level of poverty and youth unemployment. The National President of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) and General Superintendent of New Covenant Gospel Church, Rev Felix Omobude said this in an interview yesterday in Benin.