Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on religious leaders to make unity, moral responsibility and peaceful coexistence the foundation of their influence, warning against the use of religion to fuel political, ethnic and social divisions.
Governor Ododo made the call at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kogi State
He urged Christian leaders to sustain prayers for the peace and prosperity of Kogi State and Nigeria, stressing that religion should build bridges across differences rather than become a weapon of division.
The Governor also urged the Church to promote responsible participation in the 2027 general elections by encouraging citizens to make informed decisions based on issues and the long-term interests of the country.
He cautioned religious leaders against using the pulpit to manipulate worshippers or deepen political divisions.
Governor Ododo charged the Christian community in the state to strengthen its role in shaping the character of young people through teachings on honesty, discipline, compassion, hard work and selflessness.
He said his administration recognised the contributions of religious organisations to education, healthcare, humanitarian services and peacebuilding, stressing that that state government would continue to welcome partnerships that improve the lives of citizens.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Christian Association in Kogi State, Special Apostle Emmanuel Adebayo, commended the administration Governor Ododo for its support to the Christian community and for efforts to maintain peace and security in the state.
Adebayo described the golden jubilee of CAN as both a celebration of its legacy and an opportunity to build institutions that would serve future generations.
He highlighted the ongoing construction of the Kogi State CAN Ecumenical Centre in Lokoja, which is planned to accommodate schools, the state secretariat and multipurpose halls and expressed appreciation for the compensation paid to CAN following the takeover of its former secretariat site for the Lokoja International Market, noting that discussions with the state government on other outstanding benefits were continuing.
