Former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, has called on the Church to remain steadfast as the moral conscience of society amid growing insecurity and moral decline in the country.
Dr. Jonathan made the call at the 13th Diocesan Synod of the Church of Nigeria in Abuja.
The former President said Nigeria was passing through difficult times that required spiritual guidance, courageous leadership, and collective national renewal.
According to him, “Violence, insecurity, moral decline, and the loss of human values have become deeply troubling realities.”
Jonathan lamented what he described as the growing normalization of killings and destruction across the country, warning that society must not become insensitive to human suffering.
“In times past, such incidents would shake the conscience of the nation. Today, people are killed, communities are destroyed, and life seems to continue as though nothing has happened,” he said.
He stressed that the Church remained important in defending truth, righteousness, and family values, adding that religious leaders must continue shaping society through godly examples.
The former President also warned about the misuse of technology and information systems in spreading negative values among young people.
Jonathan commended religious leaders for preserving faith, discipline, and hope despite the nation’s challenges.
Also speaking, former Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Nicholas Okoh, urged Christians to remain committed to God’s purpose despite current challenges facing society.
Okoh described believers as “a chosen generation” and warned that “anytime the Church loses sight of its assignment, it begins to lose relevance.”
Another former Primate, Peter Akinola, described the Synod as “significant, symbolic, and strategic,” while urging Christians to remain steadfast in faith and biblical doctrine.
The current Primate of the Anglican Communion, Henry Ndukuba, called on Nigerians not to lose hope despite the nation’s economic and security challenges.
Ndukuba said although economic indicators were improving, many Nigerians were still struggling with inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and poverty.
“The macroeconomic gains have not yet reached ordinary Nigerians,” he stated.
The Anglican Primate also condemned continued killings and attacks in parts of the country, warning that “Nigeria is bleeding, and innocent lives continue to be lost daily.”
He urged Nigerians to participate actively in nation-building while praying for peace, justice, and national unity.
The event attracted, General Yakubu Gowon, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Ambassador Godknows Igali, prominent Christian leaders, bishops, clergy, and delegates from different parts of the country.
By Georgina Humphrey
