Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has said Nigeria may never overcome its growing problems unless the country experiences a serious moral and leadership transformation.
The respected cleric made the statement during the dedication of the new auditorium of Amazing Grace Baptist Church in Gonin Gora, Kaduna, where Christians, Muslim clerics, traditional rulers and political figures gathered in what many described as a rare show of unity.
Speaking during the event, Hayab stressed that Nigeria’s biggest challenge goes beyond politics and the economy, insisting that the country urgently needs integrity, accountability and the fear of God in both leadership and everyday life.
According to him, no nation can truly progress when moral values continue to decline and citizens lose trust in one another.
“If we truly fear God, then wisdom will guide our actions. Religious institutions must do more than organise worship; they must help shape responsible citizens who can live peacefully with others,” he said.
The pastor explained that churches and mosques lose their real purpose when society remains divided by hatred, manipulation and distrust despite increasing religious activities across the country.
“Even if we build churches and mosques everywhere, if people cannot live together peacefully, then there is no meaningful service,” Hayab added.
He praised the presence of both Christian and Muslim leaders at the gathering, describing it as a powerful symbol of tolerance, unity and coexistence at a time when Nigeria continues to battle insecurity and ethnic tension.
Rev. Hayab also spoke strongly about leadership and governance, warning political leaders against manipulation, dishonesty and abuse of power.
According to him, poor leadership examples are negatively influencing young Nigerians and gradually weakening public trust in institutions.
“Manipulation is not success. Any process built on manipulation will eventually end in shame,” he cautioned.
Also speaking at the event, President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Adelani Akanji, described the new church auditorium as a major achievement built through sacrifice, unity and commitment.
He urged members of the church to see the facility not just as a place of worship, but as a centre for moral teaching, spiritual growth and community development.
The event has since generated conversations online, with many Nigerians agreeing that the country’s social and political problems cannot be solved without stronger moral values and responsible leadership.
