Category: Religion

NGO unveils campaign to protect, promote freedom of religion, beliefs
NGO unveils campaign to protect, promote freedom of religion, beliefs

Campaign
By Abbas Bamalli
Katsina, June 28, 2024 (NAN) A Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), Search For Common Ground (SFCG), in partnership with the Legal Aid Council has began a campaign to promote, protect freedom of religion and belief in Nigeria.
Speaking at the unveiling the campaign in Katsina, Hajiya Amina Umar, the Deputy Coordinator of the Northwest zone of the SFCG, said theproject aims to promote the rights of all Nigerians to freely practice their religion or belief hinged on their fundamental human rights.
“It’s a constitutional right for each and every citizen to exercise his/her religion without interference, or any sort of discrimination because of differences in understanding, religion or belief,” she said.
Umar said the initiative is supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, and executed through the Youth Inter-Faith dialogue and higher level advocacy meeting.
She further explained that the collaborative effort addresses emerging conflicts related to freedom of religion belief violations, and enhances public understanding of interfaith dynamics.
“As part of this endeavour, we will be engaging with youths from prominent higher institutions in Katsina state to facilitate dialogues on misconceptions and beliefs among different faiths.
“The aim is to create awareness as well as educate the public on the human rights to religious freedom and the need to stop violations along religious lines.
Umar pointed out the mission of the NGO was to transform the way the world deals with conflict, away from adversarial approaches and toward cooperative solutions.
“We believe that conflict is inevitable, but violence is not. Conflict is a natural result of human diversity. When we deal with conflict adversarial, it generates polarisation and violence.
“When we collaborate, conflict catalyzes positive changes. Our vision is a world where cooperation is the norm where differences stimulate social progress, rather than precipitate violence.”
Also speaking, Alhaji Abdulrazaq Abdullahi, the village head of Unguwar Kofar Marusa welcomed the campaign in the state.
Abdullahi said such a project will remind the public to respect each other’s religion or belief without interference or discrimination as provided by the constitution. (NAN)
AABS/SH
=========
edited by Sadiya Hamza

June 28, 2024
Adamawa Govt. approves Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board’s constitution
Adamawa Govt. approves Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board’s constitution
By Talatu Maiwada
Board
Yola, June 25, (NAN)Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri has approved the constitution of the State Christian Pilgrims Welfare Board, with Rev. Theophilus Shadrach and Geoffrey Garba as Executive Chairman and Secretary respectively.
The approval was announced in a statement, by Mr Humwashi Wonosikou, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, in Yola on Tuesday.
The Board members include: Rev. Moses Luckson, Rev. Anslemn Kachalla, Rev. Bukar Lala, Pastor Biyasa Abraham, Rev. Joel Lamba, Rev. Stephen Stephen.
“Other members include; Rev. Pius Ayuba, representing the Southern Zone, Pastor Alfred Sunama representing Central Zone, and Rev. Sixtus Wuylshiri representing the Northern Zone.
“Also on the list are representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Finance and Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
“I wish the Board members well and urged them to steer the office with decorum and the fear of God, as ordained Ministers,” he stated.
According to the statement, the Board would be inaugurated on June 27.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).
TIM/EAL
========
Edited by Ekemini Ladejobi
June 25, 2024
Be patriotic, respect constituted authorities – Cleric urges Nigerians
Be patriotic, respect constituted authorities – Cleric urges Nigerians
Cleric
By Philomina Attah
Abuja, June 25, 2024 (NAN) Pastor Gabriel Aboderin, Regional Superintendent, Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Medaiyese Region in Abuja, has called on Nigerians to be patriotic to the nation and respect its constituted authorities.
Aboderin made the call in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.
He said that in spite of the challenges facing the country, the citizens must celebrate together, be patriotic to the nation and continue to pray for its greatness.
He emphasised that the Amalgamation of Nigeria in 1914 was not a mistake
“It was an act of God for the country to be united as one indivisible entity destined to be great.
“Our being together is designed by God. And if we appreciate that, it will help us to be patriotic because without one another, we cannot survive.
“The Lord has brought us together. All that is expected from us is to be patriotic citizens.
“It is even written in the Bible, Psalm 137, that “if I forget you, Jerusalem, May my right hand forget its skill”.
“It is when we get to that level in Nigeria that we can think about our future. We need something that helps us to appreciate our togetherness.
“So, being a citizen of Nigeria should be a thing of pride to us. We are praying to God for that awareness,” he said.
Aboderin advised Nigerians to always respect constituted authorities, especially the office of the President.
While reacting to the allegations that President Bola Tinubu was snubbed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, during his inauguration ceremony in Cape Town, the Cleric said the claim was a lie.
“It was just a false allegation made by some Nigerians on social media.
“It is even an aberration for anyone to rejoice over any form of perceived disrepute to the Office of the President, which is a symbol, and the highest position in the country.”
He said that such attitude should not be found among patriots.
“In America, the Presidency is worshipped like an idol. After each election, they forget all their differences and work towards a common goal to make America a great nation.
“Nigerians should be looking toward quality governance; it is a terrible thing to seek to rejoice when our President is disgraced somewhere. That is an aberration no one should be identified with,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
APA/ETS
=======
June 25, 2024
Hajj 2024: 2nd flight arrives Birnin Kebbi
Arrival
By Muhammad Lawal
Birnin Kebbi, June 24, 2024 (NAN) The second flight conveying 430 pilgrims of Kebbi has arrived at the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport Birnin Kebbi on Monday morning.
The plane, an AIRBUS A330 took-off from the Jeddah International Airport, Saudi Arabia at about 9:00p.m. Saudi time and arrived in Nigeria at about 1:20a.m.
The flight conveyed pilgrims from Argungu and Dandi Local Government Areas of the state as well as some Kebbi Government Officials (KGOs).
The third plane is expected to depart Saudi Arabia Sunday night and hopefully arrive Nigeria early Monday morning, Nigerian time. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
KLM/BRM
==========
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
June 24, 2024
Urgently subsidise food items’ movement to reduce prices, Akinfenwa urges FG
Food
By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko
Ibadan, June 22, 2024 (NAN) The Bishop of Ibadan Diocese in the Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa, has urged the Federal Government to immediately start the process of subsidising the movement of food items.
Akinfenwa made the remark on Saturday in Ibadan at the Collation, Institution and Induction of Ven. Samuel Oluwagbade as the Archdeacon of Asi Archdeaconry and Vicar of Immanuel Anglican Church, Asi.
He said this subsidy would help to reduce high cost of food items and others in the country.
”One of the reasons the prices of food items skyrocket daily is the high cost of their movement from the place of production to that of consumption.
“This is due to the high cost of diesel and fuel,” Akinfenwa explained.
He went on to advise government to bring back the Price Control Board to monitor the increase in prices of food items in the entire country.
“The situation in our land now calls for urgent action by all, so that the hunger level will not reach the point of people eating the flesh of others.
“Local Governments should also stop levying food stuffs to reduce high cost, because there is an urgent need to control prices of items so that charlatans will not be exploiting people,” the Anglican bishop said.
Akinfenwa also enjoined Nigerians to cultivate the habit of paying taxes at all times to encourage government.
He further advised all Nigerian families to begin to plant vegetables, pepper, tomatoes and spices in their gardens.
“The time has come for that really. Plant even in sacks, bottles, and the backyards so that you can eat and sell too to make ends meet.
”Moreover, plant also prayers and continue to pray for the nation to be better,” Akinfenwa said.
He described the newly-inducted Archdeacon Oluwagbade as a man of great and impeccable manners, peaceful, humble and prayerful.
The Bishop advised him to avoid nepotism and Godfatherism, and never to belong to any camp in the Church but be a father of all in all fairness.
“Have a heart of the shepherd that will multiply seeds, lead the church to progress and expand God’s kingdom, and also mobilise all age categories in the Church to work for God.
“Don’t be deceived by the fashion of the new age of Christianity in the world, uphold the godly heritage and doctrine of the Anglican Church.
“Authority and boldness have been given to you today, so we challenge you to arise and begin to build,” he said.
The Bishop further urged Oluwagbade’s wife to always support her husband and play the big motherly role expected of her by the Church.
“You and your husband should ensure you don’t leave the Archdeaconry the way you met it. Wake up, because this new position is a call to action and to serve God faithfully,” Akinfenwa stated.
While responding, Oluwagbade pledged that he would serve God in all integrity and purity without disappointing the Church and Bishop.
He thanked the Bishop for giving him the opportunity to serve, and the congregation and all others for their support and prayers.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
CC/OLAL
=========
(Edited by Olawale Alabi)
June 22, 2024
Catholic priest urges Oyo govt. to return missionary schools to former owners
Schools
By Chidinma Ewunonu-Aluko
Ibadan, June 21, 2024 (NAN) A Dominican Priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Akinwale, on Friday urged Oyo State Government to return the schools taken over from the missionaries to their former owners.
Akinwale stated this during the burial service of the late Rev. Sr. Agnes Hassan in Ibadan.
He described the taking over of the schools, which included St. Theresa’s School and St. Patrick’s School, by government as a great injustice to their former owners.
The priest noted that the late Hassan served God and humanity through her dedicated service in the education sector, especially as a principal at St. Theresa’s School, Ibadan.
He enjoined the state government to use the memory of the deceased to return the missionary schools to the church, which would also help to instill morals in the students and youths, as it used to be.
According to him, the return of the schools, taken over by the government many decades ago, will effectively widen the reach of missionary service and restore ethics in the education system.
Akinwale stated that this would also check crimes and benefit everyone, irrespective of their religious affiliations.
He described the late reverend sister as one who lived a devoted life, in preparation for death, urging all Christian faithful to emulate her life of simplicity, like that of Jesus Christ.
“Life is a waiting room; we all wait in it until our final call. She lived each day as if it was her last and she became many things to many people.
“We should all know that it will be our turn one day and, therefore, emulate Christ’s life of simplicity, as His true followers,” Akinwale said.
In her remarks, Chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, said that the deceased was a great teacher who was loved by all.
“She was a peaceful person, principal of principals, fantastic and loving; she trained us at St. Theresa’s School to be the women we are today.
“Today, we celebrate her in a special way, as you can see. Even if she had children, she might not have been honoured as we can see today,” she said.
Also, the Chairman of Burial Committee, Mrs Bola Asuni, who was also taught by the late reverend sister, described her as a wonderful teacher who was caring and passionate.
“She was so peaceful, loving and compassionate. She really lived a life worthy of emulation,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the Our Lady of Apostles (OLA) sisters, Rev. Sr. Josephine Enenmo said that the deceased was available to everyone, while her pleasant demeanour endeared her to many.
Enenmo described her as one who had considerable ability and talent as well as a good sense of humor and responsibility.
“She lived as a dedicated disciple of Christ. It was always her wish and prayer to slip quietly into eternal sleep,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that late Hassan died on May 22 after a brief illness at 87. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
CC/AYO/WAS
Edited by Ayodeji Alabi and ‘Wale Sadeeq
June 21, 2024
Hajj: Kaduna agency to refund $50 to 700 pilgrims
Refund
By Muhammad Tijjani
Kaduna, June. 20, 2024 (NAN) Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency says it will refund $50 each, to 700 pilgrims who paid for animal sacrifice while in Nigeria, through the agency in the just concluded 2024 hajj.
Retired AVM Muhammad Dabo, Chairman of the Hadaya Committee, stated this in a statement signed by the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Malam Yunusa Abdullahi in Kaduna on Thursday.
Dabo, who is also a Board member of the agency, explained that the refund followed a downward price review from the company engaged to slaughter the rams for the pilgrims in Makkah.
He said that 1,357 pilgrims paid through the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency, out of which only 700 pilgrims, who paid in Nigeria were eligible for the refund.
He explained that slaughtering of animals also known as Hadaya was an important component of Hajj rites, because pilgrims were expected to slaughter rams individually or contribute to buy a camel for slaughter.
He said that a company was engaged to procure and slaughter the rams on behalf of the pilgrims because they were often short-changed.
The committee chairman said that the first company insisted on 500 Riyals per ram, which amounted to about N200,000, equivalent to $150.
‘’We argued that given the shortfall of the Basic Travelling Allowance given to pilgrims, which is $400 because of exchange rate that CBN applied, he should review the price to 300 Riyals.
“Finally, an Islamic Development Bank-accredited company agreed to collect 375 Riyals per animal.
“The committee members did not just allow the companies to procure the rams and slaughter, but we went to the slaughtering house to see each ram ourselves before they were slaughtered.
“With the review, pilgrims that paid for their Hadaya through the Kaduna State Pilgrims Welfare Agency in Nigeria would get a refund of about $50 each,” he said.
He said that the eligible pilgrims would either be paid in Saudi Arabia or Nigeria, depending on their preferences.
Dabo advised the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) to include the cost of Hadaya in the total Hajj package to protect pilgrims from unscrupulous elements. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
TJ/PUO/FDY
==========
Edited by Perpetua Onuegbu and Philip Yatai
June 20, 2024
Church empowers members with cash gifts to cushion economic hardship
Church empowers members with cash gifts to cushion economic hardship
Cash
By Douglas Okoro
Ezzangbo (Ebonyi), June 19, 2024 (NAN) A Christian denomination, ‘The Gate Of Heaven Church’ also known as ‘United For Jesus Ministry’, has doled out cash gifts of various amounts to its members to enable them overcome present economic hardships in the country.
The event took place on Wednesday at the Church’s complex at Umuagara Community of Ezzangbo in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi.
Mr Ndubuisi Chibueze-Agbo, the President of The Gate of Heaven Church World-Wide who spoke to journalists after the event said that the decision to empower the members of the Church was taken by its Committee.
According to him, the empowerment funds amounting to hundreds of thousands of Naira were proceeds of tithes paid by the members from 2022 to date, adding that the charitable act was biblical.
Chibueze-Agbo said that 54 members of the Church benefited from the empowerment programme, saying that each beneficiary got a total of tithe paid from January 2022 the date.
He explained that the Church took the steps to mitigate the current economic hardships and cash crunch in the country.
“The decision to empower the indigent members of our Church from tithes paid from 2022 to date was taken on Sunday after the committee’s meeting which deliberated on the modalities for the distribution.
“The committee approved this formula of empowerment in its meeting held on Wednesday, June 12, after taking into consideration the high cost of foods and other essential materials in the country.
“We also encouraged our members to go into farming and produce most of the things they eat instead of depending on buying everything from the market.”
He said that the wealth of the Church should be redistributed among the members and not to be taken over by few leaders.
“Church members should be encouraged and supported with the resources they put together because God will not come from heaven to collect the cash offerings or the tithes.
“God does not need it; it is people that use money; so we do this from time to time as it has been our practice, it should be about service to the Lord’s people as Apostle Paul emphasised in 2 Corinthians 9:1-15,” he said.
Chibueze-Agbo, who was also a former Commissioner for Education in Ebonyi, maintained that what the Church did was biblical and urged other Christian denominations to always prioritise the welfare and well-being of the faithful.
The clergy said that the Church used the occasion to pray for peace in Nigeria and other countries of the world bedeviled by insecurity and conflicts.
Chibueze-Agbo said that prayers were further offered to God to raise leaders both at the national and global scenes to put the interest of the people first and strive for peace and unity among nations.
“The Church appeals to world leaders to cooperate and avoid unnecessary cold and physical wars that have become the order of the day presently.
“The word of God will never be in vain and God will turn things around for our good; let us worship God, and use the knowledge he has given us to make humanity better.
“We have to pray and work for our Creator as supreme and sovereign. It is only His will that will prevail at the end of everything, but let no one be lazy for our God does not encourage laziness,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Senior Pastor of the Church, Pastor Ebe Chukwudi, prayed for the entire congregation that the cash distributed to them would solve their basic problems and attract more wealth to the Church.
He also prayed that God would continue to bless the President of the Church who had always kept the interest of the members paramount.
The clergyman, on behalf of the beneficiaries thanked the church and the president for impacting in the lives of the congregants.
“On behalf of the beneficiaries and the Church of God, I wish to express deepest appreciation to God for his benevolence and to the president for allowing himself for God to use as a vessel of honour,” Chukwudi said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
ODO/BRM
==============
Edited by Bashir Rabe Mnai
June 19, 2024
Plateau pilgrim dies in Saudi Arabia

Pilgrim
By Patience Aliyu
Jos, June 18, 2024(NAN) Mr Ismaila Musa, a pilgrim from Plateau, has passed on in Makka, Saudi Arabia.
Alhaji Daiyabu Dauda, the Executive Secretary, Plateau Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday in Jos.
Dauda said that the deceased, who hails from Mangu Local Government Area of the state, died on Tuesday after a brief illness.
”He was ill and had been on admission at Annur Specialist Hospital in Makka since May 31.
”We wish to extend our heartfelt condolences to his immediate family, the government and people of Plateau.
”We pray that Allah will accept his hajj, grant him eternal rest and give his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” Dauda prayed.(NAN)( www.nannews.ng)
PAM/AZA
=========
Edited by Polycarp Auta
June 18, 2024
Eid-el Kabir: Ondo Speaker urges Muslims to remember needy
Eid-el Kabir: Ondo Speaker urges Muslims to remember needy
Eid-el Kabir
By Alaba Olusola Oke
Akure, June 16,2024( NAN) The Speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, has urged Muslim faithful to remember the less-privileged in the society during the Eid-el Kabir celebration.
Oladiji, in his Sallah message on Sunday in Akure, said Muslims should equally celebrate the festival with moderation in tune with the current economic reality.
Oladiji enjoined Muslims to share with the needy, in their celebration, in line with the Islamic doctrine, as dictated by the Eid-el Kabir.
The speaker who congratulated Muslim faithful on the celebration, urged them to continue to live in harmony with other religious faith.
He solicited for ceaseless prayers to sustain the relative peace currently enjoy in the state.
The speaker equally called for prayers for the leaders of the country, requesting God to grant them the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to lead the nation aright.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
OKEO/CHOM/IKU
===========
Edited by Chioma Ugboma/Tayo Ikujuni
June 16, 2024