Nigeria-President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians to always pray for the country to surmount its challenges.

Jonathan made the plea in Nsukka at the burial of Mrs Paulina Eze, the mother of Sen. Ayogu Eze, representing Enugu North and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works on Friday.

According to him, constant prayers by the clergymen and other Nigerians would go a long way in assisting the country to overcome its numerous challenges.

“When you hear of breaking news, one problem or other has befallen a country in the world.

“With prayers from clergymen and every Nigerian, the country will overcome its trials and difficulties and become a stronger nation. He said.

The president said that he decided to attend the burial because Eze’s family was a blessing to the country.

“The number of people here today is an indication that the family of Eze had done well.

“We should always ask ourselves what we will be remembered for at the end of our stay here on earth,’’ Jonathan said.

In his remark, Senate President David Mark commended the homily of the Bishop of Nsukka Catholic Diocese, Rt Rev Godfrey Onah, which would make everyone to have a sober reflection.

Mark urged the family of Eze to take solace that their mother lived a useful life as well as brought up her children in the fear of God.

 He commended Mr President who in spite of his tight schedules made out time to attend.

Gov. Mr Sullivan Chime of Enugu said the president had always shown in many ways that “he is a friend of Enugu State’’.

Chime said the presence of the president reaffirmed the love he had for the people of the state.

 “Enugu people will continue to give his administration maximum support and encouragement,’’ Chime said.

He described Eze as a worthy son of the state who had given his people effective representation.

Responding, Eze said his late mother was a known trader and farmer, who struggled to ensure that the children were educated in spite of the fact that she was not educated.

He commended Jonathan, Mark, Chime and all the people for identifying with the family at its moment of grief.

“Your prayers, condolence messages and your visits provided comfort to the family at this difficult time,’’ Eze said.

Three bishops and about 80 catholic priests were at the funeral service. The event was attended by other dignitaries, families and friends both from within and outside the state among whom were Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu, Governors Peter Obi of Anambra and Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo.