Anambra state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has restated his commitment to enthroning a peaceful and progressive state.

He said his agenda of a livable and prosperous Anambra state would be driven by compassion and transformation.

Speaking at the Dr Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, during the annual prayer rally, Soludo pledged continued partnership with the church to sustain positive change and keep giving value to residents of the state.

He, however, appealed to churches to support the efforts of the government, particularly in reducing fees in their schools so as to give every child equal opportunity.

While emphasizing that Anambra remained a Christian state, the governor called for unity of Christendom in the State, adding that true ecumenism would foster peace and progress in the state.

He said: “We must do the work of God here on earth because God won’t come down from heaven to do it. Government must live up to its responsibility, the church and larger society also have theirs.

“The twin factors driving us are compassion and transformation. The day leaders lose the link of compassion for the weakest link in the chain, then the whole essence of governance is lost.

“The road constructions, youths empowerment, free education, antenatal, employment of teachers and medical personnel, distribution of palm and coconut seedlings, they are all for the downtrodden.

“That poor woman selling banner should not only breathe, let’s create the enabling environment for them to work. There must be a balance between physical projects the parishioners are taxed on and what they enjoy,” he added.

Also speaking, the Archbishop, Province of Niger and Bishop of Awka Diocese, Most Rev Alexander Ibezim called on both federal and state governments to make necessary sacrifices for the betterment of the citizenry.

He said: “We acknowledge the plights of our members, we’re not far from you. We want to appeal to our leaders to come closer to the common man. The greatest thing the government can do for us is to better the lives of families.”

Earlier in his sermon, Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt. Rev. Ephraim Ikeakor said the prayer rally offered the congregation the opportunity to encounter the God of miracles who desired fruitfulness and multiplication for his children.

Speaking on the theme, “You shall eat the labour of your hands,” from Psalm 128:2, Ikeakor emphasized the place of faith and knowledge of God as a prerequisite for his blessings.

“Your blessings are dependent on your relationship with God. Every promise of God is anchored on his laws and principles. You can’t break God’s laws and expect his blessings.

“If we must reap the fruits of our hands, we must demonstrate undaunted faith and knowledge of God like Hannah did. We must also believe in our priests as God’s ordained regardless of their personalities.

“Faithlessness in our altar, liturgy and clergy is a serious challenge in our time. When you look down on your priest, the source of your miracle is tampered with. But when you honour them, your matter will be resolved,” he reiterated. (The Nation)

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