Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and equity in treating all faiths within the state equally.
He stated this on the twenty fifth year Priestly Silver Jubilee of Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese and Chairman Christian Association of Nigeria-CAN Niger state chapter, Most Reverend Bulus Dauwa Yohanna and book lunch at St. Micheal Catholic Cathedral Church in Kontagora.
Alhaji Mohammed Umar Bago described the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese as an exceptional leader with compassion, and a deep understanding of the spiritual needs of his community.
It should be noted that three Deacons were ordained as Priests the previous day.
According to the Governor who was represented by his Special Adviser, Print Media, Aisha Wakaso, “I recognize the importance of religious harmony and the need to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals belonging to different religious beliefs.
“I reaffirm our unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and equity in treating all faiths within the state. We recognize the importance of religious harmony and the need to protect the rights and freedoms of individuals belonging to different religious beliefs.
“Niger State is home to a diverse population comprising people of various religious backgrounds, including Christianity, Islam, and traditional African religions.
“We will promote policies that protect religious freedom, prevent discrimination, and guarantee the rights of individuals to practice their faith without fear of persecution or bias.”
While launching the Book titled Bishop Bulus Yohanna: A Man on a Mission Beyond Mantles, Governor Umar Bago said, “it is a testament to his wisdom, knowledge, and profound insights into matters of faith and spirituality. This literary contribution will undoubtedly serve as a source of inspiration, guidance, and enlightenment to many generations to come.”
Governor Bago in commending the Chairman and the entire Christendom in the State, said the Association has played a pivotal role in fostering unity, promoting religious tolerance stressing that “through the collective efforts of dedicated individuals like Bishop Yohanna, we can build a society that values and respects the rights and beliefs of every citizen.
At the Mass, Very Rev. John Popoola who took the Homily described Bishop Yohanna as a dogged fighter who believes all his flocks are of value and does everything possible to bring them together to ensure they succeed in their various endeavours.
Bishop Bulus Yohanna while appreciating everyone, charged all to be honest and truthful in their dealings.
Also in attendance are Archbishop Mathew Ndaguso of Kaduna Ecclesiastical Province, Bishop Martins Uzokwu and his auxiliary Bishop Sylvester Gopep, Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Steven Dame of Yola diocese, other Clergymen and top government functionaries.
ALIYU LAWAL
