In a recent leadership summit organized by the Niger State chapter of CAN, Most Rev Stephen D. Mamza, the Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese in Adamawa State, emphasized the importance of Christians setting aside their denominational differences to strengthen the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for progress and development.
During the summit themed “The Power of Unity” in Minna, Niger State, Mamza highlighted that unity among all Christians nationwide is crucial for the fulfillment of CAN’s purpose. He urged leaders in different regions to uphold their integrity and refrain from actions that could harm their reputation as leaders within the country.
Reflecting on his tenure as the chairman of Adamawa State, Bishop Mamza acknowledged facing numerous challenges but successfully overcame external pressures, particularly from the government, to safeguard CAN from potential divisions in the state.
Similarly, Pastor Pius Ogbu Sunday from the Leprosy Mission Nigeria, in his presentation, linked the lack of unity among denominations to a focus on expanding physical church structures rather than prioritizing evangelism in alignment with CAN’s mission.
He described disunity as a detrimental force that pits different factions against each other, warning that failure to address this issue could hinder CAN from achieving its goals effectively.
Questioning the motives behind divisions, the cleric reiterated the necessity of unity within CAN, emphasizing that collective growth and impact are possible only through solidarity among members.
Opening the summit, Most Rev. Dr. Bulus Yohanna Dauwa, the chairman of Niger State CAN and the Catholic Bishop of Kontagora Diocese, highlighted the need for church leaders to bridge gaps among association members and focus on spreading the message of Christianity effectively.