Governor Nasiru El-Rufai of Kaduna State on Friday said Nigeria needed divine intervention to pull out of its present socio-economic challenges.

El-Rufai made the remark when he received the leadership of the state chapter of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) who paid him a courtesy visit in Kaduna.

He said that the problems of security, dwindling economy, lack of jobs and general despair among the populace would require extraordinary efforts and God’s intervention to surmount.

El-Rufai expressed concern over the recent killings in some villages across the state and urged religious leaders to intensify prayers for Nigeria to overcome its problems.

He said the people must unite in prayers for the stability and prosperity in the state and Nigeria.

In his remark, state CAN chairman, Rev. Judge Dodo, said the visit was to congratulate the governor for his success in the governorship election and pray for his success.

He advised the administration to focus on security, job creation and resuscitation of industries, in order to ”make life meaningful to the people”.

Dodo also urged the government to ensure freedom of worship and protection of worship centres.

Meanwhile, the Jama’atul Nasrul Islam (JNI), said it would support the state government with prayers to deliver on its mandate.

Malam Ibrahim Kufaina, JNI state secretary, who led members on a courtesy visit, urged the governor to be patient and just in his dealings.

Responding, El-Rufai thanked them for the visit and solicited for more prayers to for his government to succeed.

He appealed to them to offer advice and constructive criticisms that would guide the government to meet the aspirations of the people.

Special prayers were offered by the clerics for peace and stability in the country.