Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has urged Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Southeast Zone, to deepen its participation in politics and support government efforts to strengthen security, peace and development across the region.
He spoke when he received the Chairman and delegation of the Southeast CAN at the New Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Owerri, at the weekend.
The governor described the church and government as partners in nation-building, stressing the need for closer collaboration between both institutions to address challenges confronting the society.
He encouraged Christians to take an active part in politics, saying: ‘If you really want all this, why would you not be part of Nigerian politics? When the righteous is in power, the people rejoice.’
Uzodimma urged CAN to educate and mobilise its members on their civic responsibilities, noting that democracy is ‘government of the people, by the people and for the people.’
He assured the delegation of his administration’s continued commitment to security and development, expressing confidence that greater cooperation between the government and the church would produce better results.
The governor called for unity among Christians and advised them to use their influence to promote peace, stability and development in the society.
He pledged to build the Southeast headquarters of CAN in Imo State.
Southeast CAN leadership had hailed Uzodimma for his support for the church and Christian activities across the region.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Chairman of Southeast CAN, Rev. Echez Divine Echez, said the visit was to appreciate the governor for his contributions to the church, including sponsoring Christian leaders and members to religious programmes and supporting CAN activities.
The high point of the event was the presentation of the Golden Jubilee wrapper and uniform to Governor Uzodimma by the CAN leadership.
Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru; Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmos Iwu; and members of Imo State Expanded Executive Council were among those present.