By Israel Adamu, Jos
Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to the Republic of Korea (South Korea), Senator Prof. Nora Ladi Daduut, has urged Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, saying the success of ongoing reforms depends on the collective support, patience and commitment of citizens.
Daduut made the call during a thanksgiving mass held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Gold and Base, Jos, on Wednesday, to celebrate her appointment as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Korea.
The well-attended service drew political leaders, traditional rulers, clergy, party faithful, family members and supporters from across Plateau State and beyond.
Daduut described her appointment as a privilege and a call to higher national service, expressing profound gratitude to President Tinubu for finding her worthy of the diplomatic assignment.
She pledged to deploy her experience and expertise towards advancing Nigeria’s interests and strengthening diplomatic, economic and cultural relations between Nigeria and South Korea.
“I wish to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for finding me worthy of this important national assignment.
“I accept this responsibility with humility and a firm commitment to advancing Nigeria’s interests and strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Korea,” she said.
Daduut noted that South Korea remains a global leader in technology, innovation, industrialisation and education, adding that Nigeria stands to benefit immensely from stronger partnerships with the Asian nation.
She said her appointment presents another opportunity to contribute to the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration and support efforts aimed at repositioning the country for sustainable growth and development.
The ambassador-designate also commended First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her commitment to women empowerment, social inclusion and national development.
She expressed gratitude to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, traditional rulers, religious leaders, women and youth groups, as well as the people of Plateau State for their unwavering support throughout her political and public service career.
Daduut urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite prevailing economic and social challenges, stressing that nation-building requires unity, resilience and collective sacrifice.
She particularly encouraged young Nigerians to remain hopeful and continue to pursue excellence, hard work and integrity, describing Nigeria as a country of immense opportunities.
Daduut, who represented Plateau South in the 9th National Assembly, also challenged women to continue breaking barriers and taking up leadership roles in politics, governance and other sectors of national life.
She further called on citizens to promote peace, tolerance and mutual understanding, noting that meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and stability.
In his homily, the Parish Priest of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Rev. Fr. Joseph Agbazi, praised Daduut for her unwavering commitment to the church, public service and humanity.
He described her as a worthy ambassador of Plateau State and Nigeria who has successfully surmounted several challenges in her journey through public life.
Agbazi expressed confidence in her ability to excel in her new diplomatic assignment and urged her to continue to uphold the virtues of integrity, humility and selfless service.