President of the Senate, Bukola Saraki, has called on Nigerians to remain positive and hope for better days even as they celebrate the commencement of the New Year, 2019.

Saraki in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yusuph Olaniyonu, in Abuja said the current social, economic and political challenges would give room for better times if Nigerians remain hopeful and collectively work together to ensure a turnaround.

He said: “I congratulate all Nigerians who are today ushering in a New Year in an atmosphere of peace. While a lot need to be done to increase the level of security in the land, revive our economy, gainfully engage our youths, the New Year gives us another opportunity to take steps that would lead us to our desired destination as a nation.

“We can only overcome our challenges if we remain resolute in fighting for what is right and doing the right things. We should ensure the coming general election is peaceful, free, fair and credible. All of us should abhor any illegal or violent activity.

“We need to also remember our fellow countrymen and women in troubled areas of the country and pray to God to restore peace in all the nooks and cranny of the country, defeat insurgency and successfully restore the displaced people to their homestead.

“Specifically, we should remember to intercede with God on behalf of our sister, Leah Sharibu, and other captives from Chibok and Dapchi. May they regain their freedom in good health in the new year.”

Saraki added that “the new year presents another opportunity to write a new success story for the country by working to Make Nigeria Great Again.”

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