Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago of Niger State has called on residents of the state to embrace religious tolerance, love, and mutual respect as a foundation for growth and development.
Speaking through the Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mrs. Afiniki Eunice Dauda, at the 114th anniversary and thanksgiving service of the First Baptist Church, Minna, Governor Bago stressed that progress is limitless where interfaith harmony thrives.
He congratulated the church on its milestone, describing it as a testimony of God’s grace and a beacon of hope to many.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Bologi Ibrahim, on Sunday, Governor Bago urged Christians to strengthen interfaith bonds through honesty, service, and love, while pledging inclusive governance.
The Emir of Minna, Umar Faruk Bahago, represented by the Kauran Minna, Mr. Peterson Kaura, lauded Christians in his domain for their peaceful conduct and urged them to sustain the virtue.
The presiding pastor of the church, Rev. Dr. Odadeyi, alongside other clergy, commended the governor for his openness to Christians and encouraged him to deepen his support.
Senior officials, including Dr. Jonathan Wasa, Jonathan Vatsa, and Lawrence Mohammed Isa, also praised the governor’s achievements and urged Christians to back his administration.
At the event, the Niger State chapter of the Nigerian Christian Youths in Politics endorsed Governor Bago for a second term, citing his inclusive leadership style.
He was also honoured with an outstanding leadership award, while the Emir of Minna received a fatherly award for his role in promoting peace and unity.
