Nigeria’s Unity Non-Negotiable, Says Archbishop John Praise

The Presiding Bishop of Dominion Chapel International Church, Archbishop John Praise Daniel, has declared that Nigeria’s unity is non-negotiable, stressing that the nation must remain one irrespective of its challenges.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja on the sidelines of a thanksgiving service held to celebrate his election as President of the West Africa Association of Evangelicals of Africa, Archbishop Daniel commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as inclusive governance.

He said the President’s appointments had made every part of the country feel represented.

“I want to thank God for President Bola Tinubu for his inclusivity in appointments and for making everyone, every part of this country, feel a sense of belonging,” he said.

The cleric added that no section of the country had been neglected in the current administration, urging the President to sustain his inclusive approach.

“I want him to do more and let everyone feel they belong to this country. Nigeria does not belong exclusively to any section of the nation,” he stated.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, Archbishop Daniel said Nigerians should celebrate the country’s progress and remain hopeful for a brighter future.

“Nigeria is on the verge of rising from the ashes of destruction, killings and bloodletting. We are beginning to see light coming to our freedom. Kidnapping, banditry and all forms of killing will come to an end,” he declared.

He expressed optimism that corruption in Nigeria would drastically reduce if the government and citizens played their roles effectively.

“We must have zero tolerance for corruption. ICPC and EFCC must sit up and bring every corrupt person to book. Only then will Nigeria become the great nation we have been praying for,” he said.

Archbishop Daniel urged Nigerians to take personal responsibility for national development rather than leaving everything to the government.

“As citizens, we owe a duty to play our part. Government must do its bit, but we too must work hard, pray, and contribute to the greatness of this country,” he added.

Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Reverend John Joseph Hayab, congratulated Archbishop Daniel on his new position and described him as a true servant-leader who rose from humble beginnings.

“Archbishop John Praise is one of those leaders who started from scratch without a structure and became what we see today,” Hayab said.

He urged young Nigerians to be patient and prepare for leadership rather than prematurely seeking power.

“Leadership in Nigeria is often given to people who have not tasted the pains of building. Archbishop John Praise’s journey should inspire young people to wait for God’s time,” he added.