Delta State Governor, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, yesterday in Warri predicted a brighter future for Delta State.

At an inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service held at the Living Faith Church to mark the 22nd anniversary of Delta’s creation, Governor Uduaghan stated that the worst is over for the state, adding that the future of the state is brighter.

He noted that despite the challenges that the state has encountered, Deltans deserve to celebrate peace and development being witnessed in the state.

“A state that was synonymous with violence before now is now known for peace,” the governor said at the service attended by eminent Deltans and former military administrators of the state.

He remarked that the Delta was moving fast and that developmental projects were going on in different parts of the state.

“I did promise and prayed to God that we are finishing strong and we will finish well and strong,” the governor stated, challenging the people of the state to use whatever position they are holding to work in the interest of the state and to the glory of God.

Uduaghan also tasked all Deltans to work hard for the growth of the state, saying he alone cannot do it.

“We have moved very fast in the last 22 years. Delta State is overcoming its challenges. The state is now the most peaceful in the country. We are moving on in terms of development. The image of Delta State is changing for good,” he stated.

The governor, who had earlier taken the first reading from Psalm 138: 1-8, added: “As a governor, I cannot do everything. If you have a responsibility, use it well for the good of Delta State. The future is brighter for the state than where we are coming from, but we all must work hard to achieve the greater dream for Delta State, created exactly 22 years ago.”

Officiating at the Service, Pastor Oritsejafor said: “We have come a long way. Twenty-two years is not a joke; Deltans must be grateful to God. There is bright future for the state. There is tomorrow for Delta State. The governor alone cannot do everything. Are we all working? Government is paying you, but you have other business.”

The National CAN President also said: “God will not forget Delta State because of our thanksgiving to Him; Delta state will not be consumed. Morning for Delta State has come and God is about to do some strange things in Delta State.”

Prayers were offered for Governor Uduaghan, his family and for Delta State.

•Photo shows Governor Uduaghan discussing with Pastor Oritsejafor, while Mrs. Roli Uduaghan watches . . . Monday in Warri. Photo: Henry Unini.