Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd); former President, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan; the Senior Pastor of The Covenant Nation Global, Poju Oyemade, and other prominent Nigerians, have hailed the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) as it turned 60 years.

Gowon, who described the Bible as far more than a religious text, calling it “light in darkness, hope in despair and truth in confusion” said that the organisation is a critical institution for nation building, adding that its six decades of service have helped to shape Nigeria’s moral, social and spiritual foundations.

He spoke during the BSN’s 17th Founder’s Day yearly lecture and awards ceremony held at the MUSON Centre, Lagos, with the theme, “Celebrating Impact and Building a Legacy of Hope.”

He said that the Society’s work goes beyond religious propagation, but is also an active contribution to national renewal, peace and development.

Jonathan, who was represented by Lt.-Col. Paul Obi said the Word of God strengthens families, builds communities and reinforces the values that hold society together.

He noted that faith-based organisations, such as the BSN, contribute significantly to national development by nurturing principles of honesty, responsibility, service and respect for human dignity.

Oyemade said BSN plays a critical role in making Scriptures available in indigenous languages, allowing people to understand God’s Word within their cultural context and helping to preserve society from moral decadence.

Earlier, BSN General Secretary and Chief Executive Officer, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, disclosed that the organisation’s “Macedonia Call” programme had provided relief materials to vulnerable groups, impacting over 40,000 people nationwide.

He added that BSN also runs literacy, trauma-healing and competition programmes for pupils, youths, corps members and the physically challenged.