By Okworide Simeon
The S.G.O Uyeh Foundation in collaboration with Delta Mega Trend Ltd and Glorious vision university, Ogwa, Edo state and Bazeelel film production have held a "Maiden public lecture series" and presentation of video documentary and a book launch in honour of "Pastor (Dr.) Senior Gabriel Okpako Uyeh JP.
In a keynote address, Bishop Prof. Adegbite, chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos Chapter, had noted that often times christians says "Politics"is not for christians because they felt it is a dirty game, but, the question is "if we as christian elites refused to participate in the governance of the society and in our environment simply because of that assertion, then the christian community must be ready to be governed by the mediocres and pagans.
Bishop Prof. S.T.V. Adegbite observed that promoting Christian values and advancing the course of national development as the topic of the day for discussion, is for Nigerians christian to come together and speak with one "Voice".
He pointed out to the fact that a Nation can not truly prosper if, it loses its moral compass, stressing that no compass is more time tested, neither people centred, nor transformative than the values found in the teachings of Jesus Christ.
He noted that, Christianity is more than a personal "religion", rather it is a call to responsible living and participate in the affairs of our environment and bring "sanity" where there is love, integrity, justice, humility, diligence and forgiveness are not just Ecclesiastical virtures are the building blocks of a healthy society.
Bishop Prof. Adegbite used the medium to inform the audience that a "PEDESTRIAN" bridge has been approved for construction by the Lagos state governor for easy crossing of the express-way by members of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, especially during conventions and other Church activities.
The guest lecturer, Prof.J.K. Ayantayo, a professor of religious ethics, sociology of religion and religious factor in security peace and conflict discourse, university of Ibadan.
While delivering his lecture, he noted that the choice of the topic "Promoting Christian values and advancing the course for national development is"sacrosanct" in today's Nigeria because it highlights the urgent need for transformational leadership qualities, moral integrity and visionary guidance-qualities exemplified by the celebrant today, Pastor (Dr.)S.G.O. Uyeh. At a time when the country is grappling with spiritual decline, moral confusion, and socio-political instability reflecting on the life and legacy of a such committed church leader become, not only relevant, but, essential.
Prof. Ayantayo observed that, Pastor S.G.O. Uyeh unwavering dedication to biblical truth, grassroots discipleship and church unity offers a model for spiritual and societal renewal.
He stressed that, as Nigeria seeks pathways to national development, the values Pastor Uyeh stood for---Sacrifice, discipline and faith-driven service serves as a blue print for ethical leadership and community transformation.
He pointed out that, a pluralistic society like Nigeria often divided by ethnicity, religion and class, is a fact, but, he reasoned that Pastor Uyeh's emphasis on unity and doctrinal soundness reminds us of the power of shared purpose under God.
He noted that, revisiting his legacy through this topic is a clarion call to both the church and the nation; that revival, growth and stability are possible when rooted in "truth, service, and godly leadership"
Prof. Ayantayo further stated that christian values which includes"Love, Peace and Unity has to be internalized with values Jesus Christ taught and practiced where he taught us to pray for our enemies as demonstrated during his life time on earth.
He advised christian leaders to be accountable and answerable to their congregations, showing compassion and care, noting that Jesus Christ lived a simple life and that simplicity should be extended to us to show example as leaders to the followers of the gospel.
In his candid opinion, he observed that churches in Nigeria are responsible for lack of national development in view of lack of unity among the churches denomination, while stressing the importance of unity, instead, they discouraged their members from not participating in the "Governance" of their environment.
While urging Government to create an enabling environment for all and sundry, he appealed to church leaders to live by example.
At this stage, Prof. Ayantayo recommended that, there is need for the church to invest in their youths, because they are potentially talented, urging the church to try as much as possible to identify the areas where their members, especially the youth are good and create a space for them to prove themselves and that will enhance national development.
Noting that, findings have made it very obvious and clear that "NATURE" can not be manipulated, because everything in life has been put in place by God Almighty.
Finally, while concluding his lecture, he opined that " National unity can not be achieved through prayer alone, but, doing the right thing at the right time".
He urged the church leaders to teach"SIMPLICITY" as subject among their congregations with the right orientation.
In his brief remarks, Pastor Dr. S.G.O. Uyeh, expressed satisfaction over the success of the programme, while appealing to all "Ambassadors" of Christ in any sphere of all human endeavours to be of positive impact, so that God sanctioned values be perpetuated in Nigeria and the world at large.
He equally expressed his profound gratitude to the chief Launcher, Prince Sam Ogrih and guest lecturer, Prof. J.K. Ayantayo whose insight contribution will always be remembered.
While still thanking the guests present, he pray God Almighty to grant journey mercies to all guests who Grace the occasion back to their respective destinations.
