From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Vice Chancellor of Bingham University, Karu, Nasarawa State, Prof. Haruna Kuje Ayuba, has described the Church as an institution of reforms and transformation of the society and its people for good.
Prof. Kuje, said that unfortunately, many people in the system are unaware of these key roles that the church play in building the society and humanity in general outside the responsibility of spiritual growth and development of the people.
In his remarks at the first public lecture of the university entitled: “Empowering The Church For Greater Societal Impact”, Prof. Kuje challenged the church leaders to revisit the essence of establishing the church, and take up the key role of transformation and empowering the social, political and economic life of the people.
He said the church is characterized by a deep sense of purpose, a compelling vision for the future, and the ability to inspire and mobilize people towards common goals rooted in faith, values, and mission.
Prof. Ayuba, thus enjoined Nigerians to believe that they can make positive impact in their country like the guest lecturer, Prof. John Kennedy Opara, whom, he said, has turned a virgin land in a small village called Gora in Nasarawa State into a productive land.
He added: “From one hectare of land, Prof. Opara has expanded to hundreds of hectares. From one product, he is now produces close to 30 different products. He has transformed a village into a city. Where people saw impossibilities, Prof. Opara has proven that with God, all things are possible.
“While many Nigerians are running away from the country, he is making a strong statement that we have all it takes not just to survive but to thrive in this country. He has proven that being blessed is not about geographical location but about God favoring a man.
“He would have put his huge investment in his geographical region (Southeast) but he chose a village in Nasarawa State to demonstrate that indeed something good can come out of Nazareth. Today, he has a massive labour force working under his conglomerate of businesses. We believe the church can learn invaluable lessons from his vast knowledge, experience, challenges as well as success story.”
The guest lecturer, Prof. John Kennedy Opara, in his presentations, made reference to scriptural passages that recognized the church as cornerstone of communities that has immense potentials that could catalyze positive change and foster societal impact.
He said: “The church plays a multi-faceted and pivotal role in the society, encompassing spiritual, social, humanitarian dimensions. Understanding the church roles is very important. It requires exploring historical significance, contemporary influence, and diverse ways it engage with communities to make the necessary impacts.”
Prof. Opara who is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of CSS Group, and former Executive Secretary, Nigeria Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), further stated that building an empowered team for societal growth involves creating a culture of trust, collaboration and accountability where team members are encouraged to take initiative, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to achieving shared goals. ”
“Evidently, empowerment strategies in the church for societal growth encompasses a range of approaches which could include equipping individuals, fostering collaboration, and driving positive change within communities.
“These strategies are essential for mobilising collective actions, addressing societal challenges, and promoting holistic development.”