Governor Ahmed Ododo of Kogi has urged Christian leaders to promote unity, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence through their sermons.
Mr Ododo made the call on Saturday in Lokoja during the Golden Jubilee celebration of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kogi branch.
He cautioned religious leaders against using religion to promote ethnic and political divisions, urging them to make peace central to their teachings.
The governor commended CAN for 50 years of faith, worship, unity and service to humanity, describing the anniversary as a celebration of God’s faithfulness.
He said the milestone also honoured Christian leaders who had contributed to the state’s spiritual and social development.
Mr Ododo said societal greatness depended not only on wealth and infrastructure but also on shared values, unity and the legacy left for future generations.
Reflecting on the theme, ‘The Glory of Worshipping Together in Faith,’ drawn from Acts 2:1, he said society’s strength depended on peaceful coexistence despite differences.
He stressed that faith was most powerful when it bridged divisions, promoted compassion and inspired collective efforts towards the common good.
The governor urged religious leaders to pray for Nigeria and Kogi, noting that leadership required divine wisdom, courage and commitment to public welfare.
He said the Church could not ignore Nigerians’ economic and social challenges, as government policies affected living costs, security, employment and education.
Mr Ododo urged Christian leaders to encourage responsible electoral participation and help citizens make informed decisions based on the country’s long-term interests.
While supporting President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, he urged religious institutions to promote issue-based political engagement rather than exploit worshippers’ faith for partisan purposes.
Earlier, CAN chairman in Kogi, Adebayo Emmanuel Olaniyan, described the jubilee as a celebration of 50 years of unity and worship.
Mr Olaniyan identified the ongoing construction of the Kogi CAN Ecumenical Centre at Phase II, along Olu Royal Hotel, Lokoja, as a major anniversary project.
He appreciated the state government for its financial support, efforts to maintain peace and tackle crime, and development initiatives across Kogi.
The CAN chairman acknowledged former state chairmen, particularly Bishops Dr Dada Olorunmolu, Dr Emmanuel Egbunu and Dr John Ibenu, for their contributions to the association.
He highlighted their roles in developing CAN’s infrastructure, including its former secretariat.
(NAN)