Niger gov charges religious leaders on inter-faith unity

Niger State Governor, Abubakar Sani Bello, has enjoined religious leaders to continue to promote inter-faith unity and to push for the betterment of Nigeria in the forthcoming general elections.

The governor made the call, yesterday, in Minna, at the inauguration of the new Chairman of Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Niger State Chapter, Bishop Bulus Yohanna, and other executive members.

Yohanna took over from Dr. Mathias Echioda, who served two terms from 2016.

According to the governor, who was represented by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Nasara Danmallam, the government will work closely with religious leaders in the state to promote unity.

He said: “We have been working closely with the two major religions in the state and we will continue to sustain that relationship.”

While assuring the new leadership of robust relationship, he advised the new CAN exco to continue to promote inter-faith unity and push for the betterment of Nigeria.

The new CAN chairman, in his acceptance speech, urged Christian leaders to encourage their members to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), adding: “We have all registered. Now, is time to collect the PVCs, so that we can all exercise our franchise.

“It is time to vote credible leaders. If we must enjoy peace and tranquility in our state, we must all be ready to vote in credible leaders. Make sure you play active part in the forthcoming elections.”

Chairman of CAN, North Central, Rev Israel Akanji, who was represented by the Secretary, Dr. Danjuma Byang, inaugurated Yohanna and his new executives, including Ezekiel Ojo (Deputy Chairman), Raphael Opawoye (Secretary), Very Rev. Goodseed Ekelema (Assistant Secretary) and Oyashowo Oyeye (Treasurer).