October 05, (THEWILL) — The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has urged both policymakers and Nigerians to take responsibility for the progress of the country rather than blaming leaders.
Bishop John Bogna Bakeni, the State CAN Chairman, made the remarks while addressing journalists shortly after the Independence Anniversary Thanksgiving organised by officials of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State Chapter, in Maiduguri.
CAN lamented that although the successive administrations have failed in terms of policy implementation, leaving Nigeria behind in terms of infrastructure and governance.
He noted that the policy of the government will determine the turnaround of Nigeria’s economic and political situation, which depends on the deliberate actions and political will of the leaders.
According to him, “As I said in my message on the pulpit, Nigerians must make the right choices. We must hold our leaders accountable at all levels, but we must also take responsibility.
He added, “I commend what they are doing, but I think we still have a lot to do. Governance is a very complex issue, and leadership in particular, so it is not a blame game. But I think where there is a will, there is always a way out. In a state like Borno, this gathering is very significant, especially to the Christian community and the unity of the state, having faced so many security challenges”, Bakeni said.
Delivering his sermon titled “We should not lust after evil things as they also lusted,” drawn from 1 Corinthians 10:6, the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Maiduguri said corruption, dishonesty, and social decay begin within individuals and families.
He said many of the challenges facing Nigeria, including kidnapping, banditry, corruption, terrorism, and tribalism, arise from moral negligence and the failure of families to instil proper values in their children.
“We cannot continue to blame the government alone. Parents must monitor their children and instil discipline and honesty in them. Evil thrives when families abandon their moral duties,” he added.
The unity service, held at St. John’s Anglican Church, Maiduguri, brought together priests, pastors, church leaders, and worshippers from across the metropolis. It was jointly organised by Maiduguri Metropolitan CAN and the Borno State CAN leadership.
Also, Pastor Timothy Olanrewaju, the Maiduguri Metropolis CAN Coordinator, thanked members for attending despite the economic challenges. He said the annual gathering was meant to thank God for His mercy and to pray for peace in Borno and Nigeria.
“We just came out of a devastating flood, and though it returned this year, God took control. That is why we gathered to praise Him and offer prayers for the land”, Olanrewaju said.
He also commended the Borno State Government for its response to last year’s flood and its ongoing efforts to return displaced persons to their communities.
