President of the Senate Senator David Mark yesterday expressed joy at the elevation of the Archbishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abuja, Dr. John Olorunfemi Onayekan to the rank of a cardinal by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.
In a congratulatory message to Onayekan yesterday, he urged him to continue his crusade for peace to reign in Nigeria saying that ” this elevation should spur him for greater services to God and humanity”.
Senator Mark, who is also a Catholic said Onayekan remain a dependable ,diligent and an unshakable soldier of Christ who stood to be counted when it matters.
” I am pleased that your hardwork, dedication and steadfastness is being recognized and rewarded . I have implicit confidence that you will as always do Nigeria proud at the Vatican.
” As a personal friend, my joy knew no bound on hearing your elevation. This is a blessing and a great honour to Nigeria.
I can only wish that you continue the good work that characterised your tenure as the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja diocese”.
Senator Mark prayed that God in His infinite mercies grant the new Cardinal good health, wisdom and courage to continue the good work in the Lord’s Vineyard.
Also ,Senator David Mark has sent a message of felicitation to Muslim faithful on the celebration of this year’s Eid el-Kabir just as he urged them to remember the nation in prayers.
Senator Mark in a goodwill message on the occasion, implored religious leaders to teach their followers on the right thing to do so that they do not deviate or depart from the truth.
He noted that Nigeria is passing through trying times especially security challenges , a development he said requires that all men and women of goodwill rise up to tackle the menace.
The President of the Senate clarified that the insecurity in the land should not be perceived or seen from the prism of religion but a crime against humanity, ” because no religion preaches violence or killings. All religion condemns violence or killing”.
Senator Mark called on all citizens to reinforce the African spirit of brotherhood, love , solidarity and unity which were the hallmark of our communal life.
He canvassed that all citizens should as a matter of fact cooperate with government in the task of ensuring peace and unity , saying ” we all have a stake in the project Nigeria, we must shun divisive tendencies and come together against all forces of darkness that seems to be dragging us back.
” We have come a long way, we cannot at this stage toil with the future of our nation. We desire peace . We need to make progress”.
The National Assembly, Senator Mark pledged will continue to be guided by the wishes and aspirations of Nigerians in the onerous task of making laws for peace, unity and good governance of the nation.
