By Quaseem Lawal
Calabar (FLOWERBUDNEWS): n a resounding call for unity and collaboration, the Governor of Cross River State, Apostle Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has urged Faith-based Organizations (FBOs) across the State to come together to actively pray for the progress and development of their communities and State at large.
Otu who spoke through his Special Adviser on Religious matters, Apostle Frank Umo, during interaction with the FBOs and Local Government Council Executives, assured them of his commitment to fostering a peaceful environment conducive to growth.
He made the appeal during a statewide familiarization tour of the 18 Local Government Areas starting with the northern senatorial district, with the aim of enhancing religious tolerance and strengthening community bonds especially among FBOs.
While addressing them, Apostle Umo emphasized the pivotal role faith leaders have in shaping societal attitudes and promoting harmony among diverse congregations, stressing that they remain critical stakeholders in his governance structures across the State.
Speaking at the headquarters of Obudu Local Government Area, Apostle Umo underscored the importance of a united front among religious groups.
“In today’s world, where divisions can easily arise, it is our responsibility as religious leaders to uphold the principles of peace and tolerance,” he noted.
The Cleric stressed that together, leaders from various faiths can ensure that Cross River State remain peaceful and united, which in turn will attract vital development efforts from the State Government.
Throughout his tour, the Special Adviser emphasized his office’s mandate to foster collaboration with Faith-based Organizations, particularly in organizing evangelical events that positively impact the spiritual climate of the State, positing that the collaborative approach was essential for nurturing a foundation of peace and cooperation, which are crucial for development in their dorman.
He highlighted the need for local government Chairmen to promote the quarterly State’s Solemn Assembly at the grassroots level, adding that the initiative aligns with Governor Otu’s vision for meaningful development, which he believes is divinely inspired to uplift the State and its citizens.
The Special Adviser, appealed to aspiring pilgrims, to utilize the office’s resources, which are now optimized to meet their travel needs to holy sites because the Department of Religious Matters was now positioned to offer every pilgrimage services to enhance spiritual engagement among the populace, helping to affirm the interconnectedness of faith.
While calling on religious leaders in Ogoja to be vigilant to prevent any form of invasion by unscrupulous elements in the name of herders, He urged them to promote equality among all individuals before the Creator, emphasizing that being one’s brother’s keeper is fundamental to building a cohesive Local Government area.
In Yala, the Muslim community in the area expressed their gratitude to Governor Otu for the various intervention programmes that have positively impacted their families, took the opportunity to request for an assistance in rebuilding their worship center that was demolished by his predecessor due to issues related to a proposed road network in Okuku.
In their response from local political leaders, including the chairman of Obudu, Hon. Peter Undiandeye Akonfe, and Dr. Sunday Ayang Ebebe, who was represented by the Council Secretary Mr. Joseph Agba Ebebe, shows a collaborative spirit.
They recognized the importance of the governor’s initiatives and pledged their commitment to embrace government programmes, including pilgrimage sponsorship.
The ongoing efforts aim to not only uplift the spiritual atmosphere of the State but also to create an inclusive environment where all faiths can thrive. This synergy between the government and faith-based organizations may serve as a model for other States seeking to overcome religious and cultural divides.
As the familiarization tour by the department of religious ends for the northern senatorial district, the Special Adviser is optimistic that this momentum would be maintained in ensuring that the voices of all Faith-based Organizations are heard and included in the State’s development narrative.
