Nigeria Needs Moral Renewal To Overcome Challenges — Hayab

The chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has called for deep moral renewal in Nigeria, saying the country’s challenges can only be resolved through integrity, fear of God, and accountable leadership.

Hayab made the call on Sunday during the dedication of the new auditorium of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, Gonin Gora, Kaduna, an event attended by Christian worshippers, Muslim clerics, traditional rulers, and political leaders.

He said the diversity of attendees reflected the kind of unity and mutual respect Nigeria urgently needs, stressing that national stability would remain elusive without trust across religious and ethnic divides.

According to him, the fear of God remains the foundation of wisdom and right conduct, adding that societies function better when moral values guide both private behaviour and public service.

“If we fear God, then we are wise. Religious institutions must go beyond worship to shaping citizens who can live in peace with others,” he said.

Hayab, who is also the Senior Pastor of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, noted that religious institutions lose relevance when communities remain divided despite their presence.

“Even if we build churches and mosques and people are not living together in peace, there will be no meaningful service,” he said.

He commended the participation of both Christian and Muslim leaders at the event, describing it as a strong signal of tolerance and unity at a time of rising social tension in the country.

Turning to political leadership, Hayab urged public office holders to embrace honesty, accountability, and moral discipline, warning that leadership conduct significantly shapes societal values, especially among young people.

He said poor leadership examples are deepening youth cynicism and weakening institutions and public trust.

“Manipulation is not success. Any process you manipulate, thinking you are smart, will end in shame,” he warned.

Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Adelani Akanji, congratulated the church on the completion of the new auditorium, describing it as a milestone in church growth and Christian mission.

He said the project reflects what can be achieved through sacrifice, planning, and unity of purpose.

Rev. Akanji urged the congregation to use the facility not only for worship but also as a centre for moral instruction, spiritual formation, and community engagement, stressing the need for values that promote peace, strong families, and national development.