In a recent address, Gbenga Daniel, the former governor of Ogun State and current Senator representing Ogun East, highlighted the crucial role of religious leaders in the task of reviving the deteriorated value system in the nation.
Daniel urged Nigerians to harness their inherent strengths and talents to bring about positive change in society.
He stressed that the collective effort of every citizen is essential for Nigeria to progress and thrive as a nation.
During his speech at the third annual Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival, which he sponsors and took place at Abraham’s Terbanacle, GRA, Sagamu, Daniel made this important call.
The event featured six invited choir groups from Ogun, Lagos, Osun, and Ondo States competing for a N3 million prize.
Explaining the origins of the choir competition, Daniel revealed that he started it 16 years ago as part of his annual thanksgiving ritual, aiming to elevate the art of singing within the church. He highlighted the profound impact of melodious and well-arranged songs in attracting youths to religious services and conveying life-changing messages.
According to Daniel, “As part of our commitment to society, we are working to address the decline in our value system. I strongly believe that the Christian and Islamic communities have a pivotal role in moral guidance and preachings. Personally, as a Christian, I have taken the initiative to draw people to churches through the promotion of our singing talent with events like this annual choir competition.
By engaging in such activities, we can encourage young individuals who might find sermons dull to attend church, even if it’s just to enjoy the impactful music with profound messages,” he added.
He further expressed that many successful figures in the music and entertainment industry had their start in churches, where they nurtured their talents. Emphasizing the potential of the music and entertainment sector in the nation’s economy, Daniel sees the choir festival as an investment in identifying, nurturing, and empowering young talents to showcase their abilities globally. He urged everyone to recognize their unique strengths and utilize them to contribute positively to society.
“Just like Aliko Dangote excels in the industry with God’s given strength, and Pastor Adeboye in gospel, you may have strengths in music, sports, or other fields; leverage them to make a positive impact,” he remarked.
He envisioned that the Choir festival would soon become a prominent tourist attraction, expanding annually. His goal is for the event to grow into an international affair over time, potentially spanning a week and becoming a significant tourism hub.
Dr. Sonny Kuku, the Chairman of the occasion and Co-founder of EKO Hospital, who spoke earlier, commended the festival for promoting healthy competition and inspiring pursuit of excellence in life.
Following the rigorous five-hour singing competition, the judges announced De Emmeralds Choir from Akure, Ondo State, as the winner of the N3 million prize for securing the first position.
Sir Olu Okeowo, a special guest, also rewarded the winning choir with an additional N1 milliion.
The Messiah Chorale from Ile Ife, Osun State came in second and received N1.5 million, while the Chamber Chorale of Olabisi Onabanjo University, who secured the third position, was awarded N1 million.
Additional rewards were presented to New Wine Ensemble Choir from Lagos State, Abraham’s Terbanacle Choir from Sagamu, and Great Remo Chorale from Sagamu, placing fourth, fifth, and sixth respectively, with prizes ranging from N600,000 to N950,000.
Among the dignitaries present at the event were Archbishop Emeritus Ayo Ladigbolu of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Archbishop Olusina Fape, the Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, Rev Mrs. Esther Ajayi, General Overseer of Love of Christ Generation, Zakky Adze, and other notable personalities.