by Christíana Gokyo, Jos
Nigerians have been charged to pray towards united, peaceful secure and prosperous Nigeria and Plateau State.
This assertion was contained in a sermon by Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam, Secretary, Head of Church Denominations, during a Thanksgiving Service held at the Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria (Church of the Brethren in Nigeria) on Sunday, in Jos, to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence.
During the Inter-Denominational Church Service Rev Gideon Para-Mallam explained that, “Nigeria is still in tough time, and we should not give up, because Nigeria will rise again; and let us continue to stand for Nigeria to change the narrative.
“Pray for unity; focus on prayers that will bring Nigerians together, transcending ethnic, religious, and regional differences. Pray for peace: intercede for peaceful resolution of conflicts and for a spirit of reconciliation across the nation.”
He also urged the people to pray for leadership, ask for wisdom, integrity, and godly guidance for national and local leaders.
Rev. Para-Mallam also called for prayers for Spiritual Transformation – to seek God’s intervention to align the nation’s vision with His purpose, emphasizing spiritual renewal.
He urged them to pray against divisive forces, intercede against forces that promote discord, violence, and disunity, and pray for prosperity, saying, “Also ask for economic breakthrough, sustainable development, and opportunities for all citizens.
“Pray for the young people, to lift up the younger generation, praying so they will be agents of positive change and national healing.”
He also emphasized that prayer should be intentional, strategic, and rooted in biblical principles, focusing on bringing God’s Kingdom and Will into every aspect of Nigerian society.
Rev. Para-Mallam also charged citizens to be united in prayer and purpose, and reaffirm their commitment to unity and abide by the virtue of tolerance and respect for one another.
Speaking, the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, urged Plateau citizens to be hopeful and offer prayers for the peace, prosperity, and development of Plateau, as Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence Anniversary.
Represented by his deputy, Ngo Josephine Piyo, the governor stated that the state was in dire need of prayers from all and sundry to overcome challenges confronting it, as building Plateau State is a collective responsibility of all.
“The theme for this year’s anniversary, ‘Towards a united and prosperous Plateau,’ resonates deeply with the aspirations of our people. It calls us to come together as one, transcending our differences and working towards a common goal of unity and prosperity.
“We remember, today, the brave men and women, who fought for our independence; and we honor the vision of our founding fathers, who laid the groundwork for a United Nigeria. Their courage and foresight inspire us to continue the work of building a nation where peace, unity, and prosperity reign.
“I urge us to commit to overcoming the challenges that confront us today, knowing that together, we can achieve great things for Plateau State and for Nigeria as a whole.
“We cannot achieve greatness without the help of God. I therefore ask the entire body of Christ to lift this government and Nigeria in prayers. Let’s lift up our voices for the peace and prosperity of Plateau and Nigeria,” the governor stated.
The Church Service was attended by Secretary to the Government of the State, Arc Samuel Jatau, Security Chiefs, Traditional Heads, and other top government officials.