Written By Daniel Karlmax; Edited By Godwin Duru
As preparations for Nigeria’s next general elections gathers momentum, citizens have been urged to rededicate themselves to democratic ideals by ensuring that credible leaders emerge and are held accountable for the nation’s democratic growth and socio-economic development.
Nigerian politician and Managing Director of Aviare Global Concept, Mr. Kudla Satumari (Haske), made the call during the 30th Anniversary celebration of the Church of Brethren in Nigeria (Ekklisiyar ‘Yan’uwa a Nigeria – EYN), Kaduna District, held at ECWA Gospel Church, Cameron Avenue, Kaduna, where he served as Chairman of the occasion.
Satumari also advised Nigerian youths to shun all forms of violence and actively participate in the electoral process by voting and safeguarding their votes to ensure peaceful, free, fair, and transparent elections.
He noted that the anniversary provided an opportunity to celebrate God’s faithfulness, protection, and guidance over the church during the past three decades.
According to him, what began as a small outreach with only a handful of worshippers has grown into a vibrant ministry with more than twelve branches across Northern Nigeria, positively impacting lives through spiritual transformation.
Speaking with journalists shortly after the event, Satumari emphasized the importance of citizens taking an active interest in the process of choosing their leaders.
“It is very important that all of us participate in the electoral process. We must go out and vote, protect our votes, and ensure our involvement does not end with mere party affiliation. On election day, citizens should turn out, vote, and monitor the process,” he said.
Addressing the nation’s youth, he urged them to reject violence and embrace constructive engagement.
“The youth are often described as the leaders of tomorrow. If we continue to engage in destructive activities, what kind of future are we preparing for ourselves?
Young people constitute a significant percentage of Nigeria’s voting population, and if they unite and harness their collective strength, they can determine who emerges as their leaders,” he added.
Delivering a sermon titled ‘Spiritual Resilience: Thirty Years of God’s Grace,’ the Guest Speaker and National Administrative Secretary of EYN, Reverend Timta Musa, described the anniversary as a celebration of God’s faithfulness, grace, and provision.
He, however, noted that the celebration was being held amidst challenging national circumstances, including insecurity and economic hardship, which continue to affect both the church and the wider society.
Rev. Musa recalled that the previous weekend had been declared by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) as a National Weekend of Mourning in solidarity with victims of insecurity across the country.
He lamented that many Nigerians remain in captivity, while others have been displaced from their communities and are living in refugee and internally displaced persons’ camps within and outside the country.
“That is why we are celebrating this anniversary with mixed feelings,” he stated.
Despite these challenges, the cleric affirmed that the church has continued to experience God’s blessings and faithfulness throughout its 30-year journey.
He expressed confidence that God would continue to provide for His people and encouraged members to maintain their trust and hope in Him.
Rev. Musa also pledged continued prayers for Nigeria, asking God to restore peace, frustrate the activities of criminals and insurgents, and return the nation to the path of progress and prosperity.
“Nigeria shall become a nation we will all be proud of, a country where people from other nations will gladly come to live and contribute to its development,” he said.
He urged Christians not to lose faith but to remain steadfast in prayer, believe in the Nigerian project, and trust God to turn the nation’s challenges into testimonies.
The event featured goodwill messages from the EYN DCC Secretary, Kaduna, Reverend Musa Abdullahi, presentation of the church’s history, cultural dance performances, song ministrations, and special prayers for Nigeria’s peace, security, and economic growth.