By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Taraba State Chapter, has called on the government to intensify its efforts by strengthening security presence in vulnerable communities to ensure lasting peace in the state.
Very Rev. Dr. Fr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, the CAN Chairman, made the call on Saturday in a New Year message to Christians and residents of Taraba during an inter-denominational service held in Jalingo.
Awoshiri noted that peace and security are indispensable foundations for sustainable development, stressing that improved intelligence gathering, increased security presence in vulnerable communities, and strengthened community-based security partnerships would promote social harmony and economic progress.
He, however, commended the Taraba State Government and security agencies for the visible efforts made so far in addressing security challenges across the state.
“We recognise the sacrifices of our security personnel who daily put their lives at risk to protect our communities and preserve peace. However, we also acknowledge that security remains an ongoing concern in certain areas.
“We respectfully call on the government to intensify its efforts by strengthening intelligence gathering, increasing security presence in vulnerable communities, and fostering community-based security partnerships. Peace and security are indispensable foundations for sustainable development, social harmony and economic progress,” Awoshiri said.
The CAN Chairman also cautioned Christian leaders against turning the pulpit into a platform for division, hate or political insults.
He urged them to uphold its sanctity as a place for peace, moral guidance and responsible engagement with authority, describing the pulpit as a sacred responsibility that must be handled with care and spiritual maturity.
“The pulpit is a sacred trust, a holy platform entrusted to us to proclaim the Word of God in truth, love, wisdom and power,” he said.
He stressed that while the Church has a clear prophetic mandate, such responsibility must be exercised with restraint and wisdom to avoid worsening existing social and political tensions.
“The pulpit must never become a platform for personal attacks, hate speech, incitement or reckless utterances that deepen divisions in our society,” the CAN Chairman warned.
“Our calling is to build faith, promote godly values, encourage peace and nurture moral discipline.”
Awoshiri noted that speaking truth to power remains a core duty of the Church but insisted that it must be done constructively and prayerfully.
According to him, “while the Church has a prophetic role in speaking truth to power, such engagement must be constructive, prayerful and guided by wisdom and patriotism.”
He appealed to residents of the state, irrespective of faith or ethnic background, to recommit themselves to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and responsible citizenship in the new year.
“Let us reject violence and intolerance, and embrace dialogue, understanding and cooperation,” he urged. “Peace is the foundation of development and shared prosperity.”
Expressing optimism for the year ahead, Awoshiri said the new year holds the promise of healing, restoration and renewed opportunities, particularly for families, youths, farmers and entrepreneurs across the state.
He prayed for divine wisdom for leaders, peace in homes and enduring stability for Taraba State and the country, wishing Nigerians a peaceful and prosperous New Year.
Earlier, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, called for prayers for the state and pledged to rebuild a befitting CAN centre, describing the current building as outdated and not conducive for worship.
