Make your votes count in 2019, envoy tells Nigerians

The Consul-General of the Switzerland Embassy in Lagos, Mr. Yves Nicolete De-Felix, has urged Nigerians to turn out in large number to vote in the 2019 general elections and ensure that their votes count.He made the call at the Celebrating The Unseen (CTU) Awards 2018 organised by the Moral Re-Armament (MRA)/Initiatives of Change Nigeria (IOFC) held at the Wheatbaker Hotel in Lagos.
 
The envoy, who described Nigeria as a shining example to other African nations for peaceful transition of power from the ruling party to the opposition, said the country must build on its political gains to strengthen democratic institutions.

De-Felix, who first served in the country between 1985 and 1988 during a military regime, hailed Nigeria’s march to democratic governance, saying the country had made big progress within the last 30 years. He urged the citizens to rely only on their votes and avoid violence.

A human rights activist and social commentator, Prof. Is-haq Akintola, who spoke on the theme “Stronger in the Storms,” said Nigerians must eschew hatred and learn how to love and tolerate one another.He urged the adherents of the country’s two main religions to live up to the doctrines of faith to show love and tolerance. Akintola said without this, the country would continue to fonder adrift. 

President of CTU, Chief Felicia Odetoyinbo, said the event was to identify and celebrate quiet performers in the society who had distinguished themselves in public and private sectors.

“We in our organisation recognise these silent workers and encourage them by celebrating them publicly in love and with gifts. Some people have formed non-governmental organisations (NGOs) just to cater for the needy and our organisation commends them for such great efforts by celebrating them.”Ojutomoro of Abigi Kingdom, Oba Olusegun Ogunye, urged Nigerians to use their time, thinking and talent to serve humanity. 

Broadcast journalist, Ify Oyinkansola Onyegbule, in her keynote address, said it was high time the country started celebrating those who had made meaningful impact in encouraging others.

At the event, four non-governmental organisations, namely The Sophia Essahmed Foundation, Nobleheart Children Foundation, Khan Foundation, and Migliore Stitches Fashion Academy clinched the 2018 CTU awards.  Others include a social crusader, Ambassador Musbau Olatunji and media specialist, Demola Sadiq. The group also awarded education grant to 18 undergraduates.