Churches must champion nation-building, says Bishop Bada
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The Bishop of Akoko Diocese, the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Reverend Jacob O. B. Bada has emphasized the indispensable role of the Church in the overall development and transformation of Nigeria.
Speaking during a gathering of Christian faithful to mark the 100b years of existence of St. George’s Anglic Church, Okeagbe Akoko in Ondo State, Bishop Bada, stated that the Church must go beyond its spiritual responsibilities and actively participate in nation-building.
According to him, “Churches are not only the moral compass of society but also critical agents of change, peace, and progress.”
Bishop Bada in his sermon noted that the pulpit must be used to preach values that promote integrity, accountability, unity, and active citizenship of which was the expectations of Archdeacon Lackland Augustus Lennon, a missionary from Jamaica, the founder of St. George’s Church, Okeagbe Akoko.
He said Lennon’s commitment to social reforms helped address issues such as poverty, intimidations, human rights, and social justice, which contributed immensely to the theological discourse within the communities in Okeagbe context. This leads to the development of indigenous theological framework that addressed local challenges and concerns
Theclergymenn who quoted from the Holy Bible in Psalms 122 v 6, 8 and 9 prayed for the peace of Okeagbe saying that the community shall be prosper.
“Okeagbe is blessed because it is a city of God. God is dwelling in Okeagbe. The city is better by the day. We feel secure in the community because it has brought forth uncommon leaders in the country. I salute you all. There is nobody in this community that is not connected with St. George’s Anglican Church Okeagbe.
“I am also happy that St. George’s Anglican Church Okeagbe is progress as the wish of Archdeacon Lennon. Okeagbe is built on the mountain likewise Okeagbe. We the people of Okeagbe should continue to endure together for the progress of the town. Let us continue to remember what Archdeacon Lennon represent that is love, peace and unity”, he said
The Bishop however urged Christians to pray fervently for the country and its leaders, adding that spiritual revival must go hand in hand with social responsibility for true and lasting national development.
Also, the Asiwaju of Okeagbe land,
Otunba Solomon Ayodele Oladunni called on religious leaders across denominations to unite in fostering a vision-driven Nigeria that reflects God’s purpose.
He emphasized that the spiritual community has the capacity to influence policy direction, youth empowerment, education, and social reformation through prayers, advocacy, and positive engagement.
While speaking, the Chairperson Central Planning Committee, Dr (Mrs) Florence Adetutu Justus-Oni thanked God and the people of Okeagbe for the celebration of 100 years anniversary of the Church.
“This remarkable milestone is a testament to the enduring grace of God, the dedication of the people, the steadfastness of those who have laboured in love to build the church into what it is today”, she added
