The security agencies, according to him, are not only working to bring the perpetrators of the evil act to book, but also to forestall further attacks in the country.
"Our prayers are with the victims of Boko Haram and their families and loved ones. The last tragedy of this heinous ideology occurred while we were preparing to mark the resurrection of our Lord at Easter, bringing sorrow to many families ," he said.
"The government is offering all assistance to support the affected families as the security agencies work tirelessly to unravel the scourge of this evil and to forestall further senseless desecration of our homeland.
"And of course, no matter what the government does, we cannot recover the dead but one thing we promise is that all those who took part in that act will surely pay for it."
He asked all Nigerians to "come together and have faith to combat the ignorance, intolerance that may lead to this unwarranted hatred and continued violence because we are all children of God."
Continuing, he said: "As we celebrate Easter, it is no wonder that we are overwhelmed by the mercy of the awesome God. His love for us is so deep and inspiring. We need to rely on Him to pursue peace and overcome the enemies of the nation.
"My message to you this morning is a sincere appreciation of your prayers. Your love for our country gives me hope and encouragement to do more for the good of our country. I urge you not to relent in your prayers and dedication because overcoming the present challenges we face may look impossible with men, but with God all things are possible. This is clearly seen in the scriptures and this is my article of faith. And of course, this is one of the things that make me smile whenever you see me."
"By the grace of the Almighty, Nigeria will overcome the evil of terrorism."
A minute silence was observed in memory of the victims of the Nyanya bomb blast.
The guest speaker at the session, Professor Vincent Anigbogu, urged President Jonathan not to be distracted by the prevailing threats to nation-building, and said that Nigeria is not the first or the last to experience obstacles in its stride to development.
Quoting 2 Peter 3:8, he said: "All great visions for Nigeria must move forward. Just like the threats of Herod in the Bible were made insignificant, the threat of Boko Haram shall be insignificant. If your desire is to change this nation for better, God will honour it.
"Many leaders faced similar challenges and overcame them. You are not alone, Sir."
"Our talents should not be targeted at how to go to the moon, but let us create jobs for the youths. We must establish first class infrastructure in the country."
At the prayer session were Governors Godswill Akpabio (Akwa Ibom) and Willie Obiano (Anambra), Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Omehia, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chef Anyim Pius Anyim and Christian leaders from different parts of the country.
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