An Interdenominational church service with the theme "The Lord is our Strength" was held, yesterday, in Akwa Ibom to usher in the year 2013.

The event which took place at the multipurpose Ibom hall ground in Uyo was conducted by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev (Dr) Matthew Hassan Kukah.

Speaking at the occasion, the state Governor, Chief Godswill Akpabio, urged the people to pray for the state and the nation.

He said that his administration would continue to draw inspiration and strength from God whom he noted has been directing the affairs of the state.

"'The year 2012 has come to an end, and we begin the year 2013 with a renewed sense of optimism and resolve to ensure that the people of Akwa Ibom State get the best.

In retrospect, 2012 was a year in which the people of Akwa Ibom State demonstrated tremendous character and resilience in the face of numerous challenges but with God on our side, we pulled through," Akpabio noted.

In his homily, Bishop Kukah lamented that the country could not achieve the unity of the component parts in the face of the current agitation for the creation of more states and local government areas.