Prominent Christian leaders in Nigeria, including Archbishop Daniel Okoh of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Most Revd Henry Ndukuba of the Anglican Communion, have voiced a message of hope amidst the country’s current adversities. Speaking at the Divine Commonwealth Conference (DIVCCON) in Abuja, they called for unity and proactive engagement with the government to foster national improvement.
Archbishop Okoh, in his address, stressed the critical role of unity in tackling Nigeria’s challenges, ranging from poverty to corruption. He pointed out CAN’s unique position as a unifying platform for Christians in Nigeria, urging the association to act as a conduit for collective action and support for the government’s efforts in national development.
Echoing this sentiment, Dr Nicholas Okoh, the former Primate of the Anglican Communion, appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to focus on the fundamental needs of Nigerians, such as food, healthcare, and education. He acknowledged that while challenges cannot be entirely eradicated, significant strides can be made to alleviate them.
Most Revd Henry Ndukuba also spoke passionately, encouraging Nigerians to remain undaunted and to work towards the transformation of their country. He emphasized the church’s potential to effect change and overcome the corruption that plagues the nation.
Editorial
The recent declarations by Nigeria’s ecclesiastical leaders at DIVCCON 2023 serve as a poignant reminder of the power of hope and collective action in the face of adversity. Their unified stance against Nigeria’s current tribulations is not just a call to the faithful but a broader appeal to all citizens to engage actively in the nation’s revival.
We, as a collective voice in the media, echo the sentiments of these leaders. It is our firm belief that the situation in Nigeria, while dire, is not insurmountable. The call for unity and constructive engagement is a clarion call for all sectors of society to collaborate towards a common goal: the betterment of the nation.
The role of the church, as highlighted by the religious leaders, is particularly significant. It is a call for moral leadership and social responsibility. The church must rise to the occasion, not only as a spiritual guide but as a force for social and ethical transformation.
In the spirit of this call to action, it is incumbent upon those in positions of power to heed the advice of these religious leaders. Prioritizing the welfare of the people, addressing their basic needs, and fostering an environment of transparency and accountability are steps that must be taken. The government must work in tandem with all sectors, including religious organizations, to pave the way for sustainable peace and development.
Did You Know?
- Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is often cited for its rich cultural diversity and vast natural resources, yet it faces significant socio-economic challenges.
- The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) is one of the largest Christian ecumenical bodies in Africa and plays a significant role in advocating for social justice and national development.
- The Anglican Church of Nigeria is one of the largest provinces in the Anglican Communion, with millions of members across the country.
- The Divine Commonwealth Conference (DIVCCON) is an annual gathering that brings together Anglican clergy and laity from across Nigeria to discuss issues of national importance.
- Religious leaders in Nigeria have historically played a crucial role in mediating conflicts and advocating for democratic governance and human rights.
