Kogi Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has called on religious leaders across the state to intensify efforts to promote unity and peaceful coexistence among residents.
The governor made the appeal after receiving representatives of Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the Government House in Lokoja.
Ododo commended the two religious bodies for maintaining a cordial relationship and working together to foster harmony among their followers, describing their cooperation as vital to the continued peace and stability of the state.
He explained that the meeting was aimed at securing the continued support of religious leaders in promoting peaceful coexistence through sermons, prayers and wise counsel to their congregations.
The governor maintained that religious leaders were not the problem of the state, identifying self-centred politicians who prioritise personal interests over the collective welfare of the people as a greater challenge to unity and development.
He expressed satisfaction with the existing relationship between Christians and Muslims in Kogi, noting that their mutual understanding reflected a shared commitment to serving God and contributing to the well-being of society.
Ododo urged the religious leaders to sustain the spirit of cooperation and continue praying for the state, its leadership and citizens.
He also encouraged them to strengthen the preaching of peace, tolerance and mutual respect in their respective places of worship, stressing that religious institutions have important roles to play in building a united and harmonious society.
The governor further emphasised the need for divine guidance and blessings for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities, expressing confidence that sustained prayers and cooperation would help the government deliver effectively on its mandate.
He reiterated his administration’s commitment to working with religious leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen unity and promote peaceful coexistence across Kogi.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria in Kogi State, Adebayo Olaniyan, appreciated the governor for recognising the contributions of religious leaders and maintaining engagement with them.
Olaniyan assured the governor of the association’s continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting peace, unity and harmonious relationships among the people of the state.
Similarly, the Chairman of Jama’atu Nasril Islam in Kogi State, Ambassador Usman Bello, pledged the organisation’s support and prayers for the governor and his administration.
Bello reaffirmed the commitment of the Islamic organisation to supporting efforts that would sustain peace, strengthen unity and encourage peaceful coexistence among residents of Kogi.
