BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. Joseph John Hayab, has warned Christians in Northern Nigeria against internal divisions, insisting that unity remains essential for a stronger collective voice and meaningful contribution to national development.
Hayab made the call on Tuesday in Kaduna while receiving a delegation of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Kaduna State Chapter, led by its national coordinator, Archbishop James Francis.
He said the strength of the Christian community lies in its ability to remain united despite denominational differences, stressing that fragmentation weakens its influence in addressing societal challenges.
“Northern Christians cannot afford to be divided. If we are united in purpose and vision, our collective voice will become a powerful force for peace, justice and national transformation,” he said.
The NCA chairman noted that the socio-political and security realities in the North require deeper collaboration among Christian leaders, churches and faith-based organisations, adding that denominational boundaries must not hinder collective responsibility to society.
He urged the Church to sustain its moral leadership role by actively promoting reconciliation, peacebuilding and national cohesion, describing it as critical to stability and progress in the region.
Hayab also commended the visiting bishops for their solidarity visit, describing it as a reflection of growing unity and commitment among Christian leaders to strengthen relationships within the body of Christ.
Earlier in his remarks, Archbishop James Francis said the delegation’s visit was to identify with Hayab and acknowledge his contributions to the Christian community, particularly his efforts in promoting unity across Northern Nigeria.
“We came today to pay our solidarity visit to our leader, our father, the Chairman of the Northern Christian Association, because of his tremendous achievements and impact in the lives of Christians in the North,” Francis said.
He noted that the delegation, drawn from different denominations under the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, reflected broad-based support for Hayab’s leadership.
Francis added that the conference was ready to strengthen partnership with the NCA in advancing initiatives aimed at promoting the Church and contributing to national development.
