From Femi Oyelola , Kaduna
The Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Rev. John Hayab, has called for increased investment in religious education, describing it as a vital tool for addressing Nigeria’s rising moral, social, and security issues.
Hayab appealed on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Christian Religious Studies (CRS) Conference and Seminar Hall at Kaduna State University (KASU). He urged governments, churches, families, and faith-based organizations to bolster support for religious studies and students pursuing this discipline.
He stated that the country’s ongoing challenges, including insecurity, corruption, intolerance, and declining social values, highlight the need for educational programs that promote ethical behavior and responsible citizenship.
According to him, religious education plays a crucial role in shaping character, fostering peaceful coexistence, and developing leaders with integrity and a sense of responsibility.
Hayab pointed out that while security agencies and government institutions work to address these issues, long-term solutions require intentional efforts to rebuild society’s moral foundation through quality education.
Discussing the importance of Christian Religious Studies, he dismissed the idea that the discipline is only for those intending to join the clergy, emphasizing that it provides knowledge and skills applicable across various professions and in public service.
He explained that studying CRS equips students with competencies in ethical decision-making, leadership, conflict management, and critical thinking, all of which are highly valuable today.
Drawing from his experience in peacebuilding and national engagement, Hayab noted that a proper understanding of faith can promote reconciliation, mutual respect, and social harmony among diverse communities.
He encouraged students of Christian Religious Studies to take pride in their field, describing it as a discipline that prepares individuals to make meaningful contributions to both the church and society.
“The world today needs people of integrity, wisdom, compassion, and moral courage. Christian Religious Studies remains a noble and relevant discipline with the capacity to shape positive change,” he said.
Hayab also highlighted career opportunities for graduates, including teaching, counseling, journalism, public relations, human resource management, public administration, peace and conflict resolution, humanitarian services, policy advocacy, and community development.
He added that graduates can pursue postgraduate studies in areas such as Peace and Conflict Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Sociology, International Relations, Education, and Development Studies.
The NCA chairman urged the management of Kaduna State University to continue supporting the Department of Christian Religious Studies through better infrastructure, staff training, research funding, digital learning resources, and strategic academic partnerships.
He called on churches and Christian organizations to complement these efforts with scholarship programs, mentorship initiatives, and internship opportunities for students.
According to him, ongoing investment in religious education will help produce graduates who can contribute meaningfully to national development and social transformation.
Representing the university management, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Muhammad Bashir Ali, praised the initiative and called the new facility a valuable addition to the university’s academic infrastructure.
He expressed confidence that the conference and seminar hall would improve teaching, learning, and research activities within the department while creating opportunities for wider scholarly engagement.
