Jonathan at Otedola's burial, urges prayers for Nigeria

President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday urged Nigerians to pray for the country at the funeral service for a former governor of Lagos State, Sir Michael Otedola, in Epe, Lagos.

'Please pray for the country. As a nation, we have challenges. Some other countries have passed through their challenges. Continue to pray for the nation with commitment,' he said.

Jonathan advised Nigerians to emulate the lifestyle of the deceased whom he said had made a positive mark in his service to the country.

'Issue like this gives us concerns, making us to think about life. To our late father, we are quite happy because he has left a mark in the sand of life. He has served us gracefully and has left us gracefully.

'What lesson will we leave when we also leave this planet? That is the challenge for all of us. He has been a father to all. We pray that God would raise someone who will fill the gap that he has left,' President Jonathan said.

Delivering his sermon at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ibowon, Epe Local Government, Monsignor Philip Hoteyin, Chaplain of Marian Shrine, Lagos Catholic Diocese, urged President Goodluck Jonathan to strengthen the unity in the country.

'Nigerians are everywhere. Everywhere you visit, Nigeria is regarded as the greatest. Let us remain one of the greatest countries that we have always been,' he said.

He noted that the country was regarded as a family, adding that efforts must be made towards keeping the country as one.