Accra, Jan 3, GNA - A Member of the Council of State, Mr Ato Essuman, has called on Ghanaians to unite to ensure the "anticipated growth" for the nation.

They should not allow political, ethnic and religious differences to retard the nation's progress.

In a New Year message he reminded Ghanaians that it was only through unity, hard work, dedication and sincerity that the nation could attain middle-income status within the shortest possible time. "Let us make up our minds to die a little for the development of our motherland," he stated.

Mr Essuman commended farmers and fishermen for working hard to feed the nation and sustaining the economy and assured them that the government would do everything possible to support their efforts. The Council of State Member stressed the need for industrial peace this year since labour disputes retarded progress.

"We must use dialogue to resolve our industrial differences," he stated adding that, "Let us make 2007 industrial unrest free". He appealed to Ghanaians to regard Ghana's Golden Jubilee this year as a national programme and asked them to make every effort to make the celebration a success.

Mr Essuman who is also the Chief Director of the Ministry of Education, Science and Sports, stressed the need to improve sanitation and called on traditional rulers, District Assembly and Unit Committee Members to rekindle the communal spirit of the people to ensure accelerated development in their communities.

The Chief Director reminded students of the huge investment being made by the government and their parents to ensure their education and asked them to refrain from activities, which could affect their studies. "Your destiny is in your own hands, you can make or mar it", Mr Essuman advised students.

It is my prayer that the year would bring happiness, prosperity and good health to all Ghanaians, he concluded.