From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom and his successor, Rev. Fr. Hycinth Alia, have challenged the church to champion the cause of quality political and community leadership that will herald socioeconomic growth and development of Nigeria.
They made the challenge in Abuja, during the public presentation of three books titled, “Elders, The Younger Ones Are Coming, Spiritual Leadership, and Has He Called You” authored by Rev. Tor Uja, the former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Christian Pilgrims Commission (NCPC).
The event was also attended by prominent individuals from the political to business, and religious circles including the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Patricia Etteh; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha; Senator Ajayi Boroffice, among several other people attended the event including traditional leaders.
The leaders said that continued self development in the knowledge of God, as well as the general knowledge of the economy and politics was very important in achieving the desired national development.
In his welcome remarks, the Author, Rev. Uja, described the journey to writing the three books as an interesting one, stressing that a lot of spiritual and intellectual work was put in the book, thus making it more interesting and educative for those that desired the knowledge.
He challenged those involved in church, political and community leadership to immerse themselves in the book and the knowledge therein, so they can make better leaders.
Former President Jonathan who was represented by Jide Adeniji, appreciated the author for the insightful books, one of which highlighted the importance of continuity in quality leadership, stating that there’s no durable success without a successor.
He stressed the need for quality and credible characters in the political leadership of the country as against what’s currently seen and witnessed among the political class in the country.
The Deputy Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ode, in his remarks, appreciated the spiritual and intellectual gifts deposited in the author by God, describing him as a great asset to Benue State and the entire Body of Christ.
Ode made reference to the positive impact of the author while he served as the Executive Secretary of NCPC a few years ago, particularly his ability to maintain and balance quality relationship with God despite several temptations and provocation.
He extended the regards of the Governor, Rev. Fr. Hycinth Alia, and assured him of continuous prayers and support to any of his engagements that will bring socio-economic peace and development to Benue State and beyond.
Chairman of the occasion, Senator Ajayi Boroffice, in his remarks challenged those in Christian leadership positions to arm themselves with copies of the books, and tap into the deep knowledge therein for better impact on the people.
He described the author as a great asset to the Christian community in Nigeria, highlighting the critical role he played in sanitizing and reforming the Christian pilgrimage exercise in Nigeria.
Former Benue Governor, Samuel Ortom, in his remarks, expressed optimism that the book will provide the needed solutions to crisis of leadership being experienced in the church, organisations, governance, and others.