(BY NGOZI ADIGHIBE)

Following the spate of insecurity in Nigeria, The Primate of all Nigeria, Anglican Communion, the Most Rev. Nicholas D. Okoh has called on Nigerian leaders to do all to secure the lives of its citizens. He opined that the Nigerian armed forces are capable of tackling the insurgency in the nation; noting that the removal of service chiefs is not a holistic solution to the issue of insecurity in Nigeria.

Primate Okoh made this call at the public presentation of the 11-track music album titled, “It pays to serve Jesus” compiled by the Chapel of the Advent Choir, Primate’s office, Abuja in celebration of the Primate’s Episcopacy and in honour of the patrons and patronesses of the Choir that was initiated by Primate Okoh. At the event, which took place at the Cathedral Church of the Advent, Life Camp, Gwarinpa, Abuja, the Primate drew the attention of all present to the fact that there is beauty and ugliness when one is serving the Lord. He reminded all of the Bible passage that states that Christians have been called to not only share in Jesus’ glory, but to also suffer with Him.

According to him, this fact has become so real in Nigeria, where many Christians are being killed and taken captive because of their faith. He cited the examples of the Chibok girls still in captivity, Leah Sharibu, who is said to have become a mother, citizens of Plateau state who were murdered in cold blood, and the CAN Chairman in Michika LGA, Lawan Andimi who was killed, to buttress his point that there is the other side of the coin when serving Jesus.

He said, “When running the Christian race, everything cannot be rosy. Therefore, when it is time to pay the supreme price, will you stand or compromise?” Hence, he called on all to spare a thought for those in captivity in their prayers and pray that the God of rescue will visit Nigeria.

The head of the Anglican Church in Nigeria thanked the patrons and patronesses of the Choir for helping the Choir realize their God-given gifts. He applauded the Choir for continued growth over the years and their achievements, including the production of a music album; further congratulating them for being a set of disciplined people who are able to submit to leadership.

The chairman of the occasion, Sir Dr. Joey Azinge in his address described the album project as a serious sacrifice that required time and money. Thus, he commended the leadership of the Chapel, as well as the Choir for having achieved such a great feat, without the office work being neglected.

Also present at the music album public presentation were The Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, Primate-elect of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion and his wife, Senator (Mrs) Ufot Ekaette, Ambassador Ademola Aderele mni, Owelle GPO Chikelu CON, Sir Emmanuel Ohakim, Sir Folu Olamiti and many other notable dignitaries.