Nigeria Needs Moral Renewal To Overcome Its Challenges – Hayab

The chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has said Nigeria’s challenges can only be addressed through a deep moral renewal anchored on integrity, the fear of God and accountable leadership.

Hayab made the call yesterday during the dedication of the new auditorium of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, Gonin Gora, Kaduna, which attracted Christian worshippers, Muslim clerics, traditional rulers and political leaders.

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

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 also serves as Senior Pastor of Amazing Grace Baptist Church, noted that both churches and mosques fulfil their true purpose only when they promote harmony within society, warning that religious structures lose relevance when communities remain divided.

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

He commended the presence of both Christian and Muslim leaders at the event, saying it sent a strong message of tolerance and national unity at a time of rising social tension.

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

He warned that poor leadership examples are fuelling cynicism among the youth, while also weakening institutions and public trust.

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

Also speaking, the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Adelani Akanji, commended the dedication of the new auditorium, describing it as a landmark achievement that reflects commitment to church growth and the advancement of Christian mission in the country.

He said the development demonstrates what can be achieved when faith is matched with sacrifice, planning, and unity of purpose.

Rev. Akanji urged the congregation to see the facility not only as a place of worship but as a centre for spiritual formation, moral instruction, and community engagement.

He encouraged church leaders and members to remain steadfast in promoting values that strengthen families, uplift society, and contribute to national peace and development.