By Philomina Attah
Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Chaplain of the Presidential Villa, Abuja says Nigeria’s peace and stability are critical to global security due to its population of more than 200 million people.
Adegbite, who is also the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC), stated this on Wednesday in Abuja at the inauguration of the Youth Wing of the Northern Christian Religious Leaders Assembly (NOCRELA).
He, therefore, cautioned those seeking to destabilise the nation to have a rethink, and work towards its unity and progress.
The Clergy also warned that “divine retribution awaits individuals seeking to destabilise the nation’’, while emphasising the need to guard the country jealously and pray for peace.
He said extremist teachings must be countered with deliberate investments in youth enlightenment, national orientation and value-based leadership.
Adegbite also called for peace, unity, and active youth involvement in rescuing Nigeria from instability.
Archbishop JohnPraise Daniel, the National Chairman of NOCRELA, urged the Church to empower and release young people into positions of influence, emphasising that “youths are not the leaders of tomorrow, but leaders of now.”
He called on the Church in Nigeria to strengthen its mentorship of young people, equipping them to become active promoters of national unity in addition to their roles in the church.
Rev. Simon Dolly, the Secretary-General, NOCRELA, explained that the new youth wing comprised indigenous Christians drawn from the 19 northern states and the FCT who understood the unique security and social challenges of the region and were prepared to address them.
The newly inaugurated Chairman of the Youth Wing, NOCRELA, Mr Emmanuel Ayuba, outlined plan to support and partner with the government to make Nigeria great again, by focusing on unity, inter-faith dialogue, and grassroots initiatives.
He promised to prioritise interfaith cooperation, noting that Northern Nigeria’s religious sensitivity makes collaboration between Christian and Muslim youths essential.
He pledged to extend a “handshake of love and cooperation” to Muslim youth groups to promote peaceful coexistence across the region.
Ayuba stated that the youth wing was ready to partner with government at all levels to tackle insecurity and groom a productive youth population capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
He said the event was a coordinated effort from northern Christian leaders to position the youth at the forefront of a new campaign for national cohesion, counter-radicalisation, and active citizenship. (NAN)