Gov. Kefas Seeks Stronger Church-Government Partnership to Tackle Societal Vices

By Godwin Agia, Jalingo

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has called for stronger collaboration between the Church and government to address societal vices and promote sustainable development in the state.

Kefas made the call on Thursday in Jalingo while presenting a paper titled “The Church and the State: Restoring God’s Vision” at the opening of a three-day ministers’ conference organised by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State chapter.

The conference, themed “The Church and the State: Partners in God’s Plan in a Changing World,” is being held at the CAN Secretariat in Jalingo and attracted ministers and political leaders from across the state.

The governor said religious leaders have an important role to play in restoring moral values and promoting responsible citizenship, urging them to speak out against corruption, immorality and other social vices.

He also highlighted some of the achievements of his administration and appealed to Christian leaders to continue praying for peace, unity and development in Taraba State.

Earlier, the Taraba State CAN Chairman, Rev. Dr. Williams Awoshiri, said the Church and government have different responsibilities but should work together in the interest of the people.

Awoshiri urged political leaders to uphold integrity, accountability and justice in the discharge of their responsibilities.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Christian Religious Matters, Rev. Fr. Sunday Patrick Muke, described the conference as an opportunity for fellowship, spiritual renewal and constructive dialogue between religious leaders and government officials.

In his presentation, Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi said the values of honesty, accountability and self-denial demonstrated by the early Church should serve as a guide for contemporary leadership.

Similarly, Rev. Caleb Ayima advocated a stronger partnership between the Church and government based on mutual respect, dialogue and a shared commitment to the common good.

The Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, who spoke on “Practical Strategies for Sustainability in a Changing World,” urged the Church to maintain its independence in speaking truth to power while promoting unity and helping to bridge divisions within society.