…urge prayers for leaders; patience in face of difficulties

By Luminous Jannamike

Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has called for the transformation of institutions to better serve the people.

He also urged citizens to pray for their leaders as they fight corruption.

The Archbishop made this call during the 45th anniversary Church service of the Organization of African Instituted Churches (OAIC) on Monday in Abuja.

The service's subject was 'Behold, I Will Do a New Thing.'

Archbishop Okoh, who also serves as the OAIC's International Chairman, underlined the significance of individual responsibility in creating change rather than relying exclusively on supernatural intervention.

He advised the faithful to continue praying for their leaders while aggressively combating corruption and injustice.

"Whenever we find ourselves in certain situations, let us continue to pray and ask God for help," Archbishop Okoh added. The devil will not see an opportunity to promote corruption, injustice, immorality, and division among us this way.

"Instead, let us fight these vices and work to transform government institutions so that they can serve the people and restore our joy."

"Therefore, let us continue to pray for those God has chosen as leaders, that they may desire to know themselves and not be deceived or discouraged in carrying out their divine assignment to do what is right."

"These adjustments will take place. We must be patient with our leaders, who genuinely care about our country. Not everyone in government works for the people, but I believe that many in government sincerely pray to God to bring about the necessary change in our countries. Let us pray for them, and may God keep them safe from the powers of darkness and power.

"We pray that God will give them the courage to always do what is right, no matter who stands in their way." Let us continue to believe in God since He has given promises that He will not break. Africa will rise once more. "Africa will be great."

Prelate Israel Akinadewo, National President of the OAIC (Nigerian Region), echoed Archbishop Okoh's thoughts in his remarks.

"Despite the current challenges, there is still hope for a united Nigeria." "God has better plans for the country's future if its people come together in love and unity," he stated.

Reflecting on the organization's 45-year journey, Prelate Akinadewo emphasized the OAIC's global reputation.

The OAIC was founded in Cairo, Egypt, in 1978 and brought to Nigeria the following year, signifying a double celebration for the Nigerian region.

Nicta Lubaale, OAIC's International Secretary, also spoke at the ceremony, praising the organization's growth over the last 45 years.

"We honor the lives and contributions of our founders, who interpreted the scriptures in light of the rapid socio-economic and political changes of their time," she went on to say.

The leaders of OAIC expressed hope that, despite the current difficulties, Nigeria can look forward to a brighter future based on love, unity, and the transformation of institutions to better serve the people.

Their call for unity, prayers for leadership, and the fight against corruption, delivered at the event, resonated with the attendees.