The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, Taraba State Chapter, has launched a ₦10 billion fundraising campaign for the construction of a new Christian Centre in Jalingo, with the state leadership calling for unity and collective commitment towards the project.
The launch took place during the closing ceremony of the three-day CAN Ministers’ Conference in Jalingo, which brought together Christian leaders and ministers from across the state.
CAN Taraba Chairman, Very Reverend Father Williams P. Awoshiri, said the proposed centre belongs to the entire Christian community and should not be associated with any individual, denomination or congregation.
He called on Christians to put denominational differences aside and work together towards the realisation of the project, which is planned to accommodate about 5,000 people.
According to him, the centre is expected to provide a common platform for worship, fellowship, prayer, Christian leadership and engagement on issues affecting the Church and society.
Fr. Awoshiri appealed to Christians, government officials, traditional institutions, corporate organisations and individuals to contribute according to their capacity, including through financial support, building materials, professional services, labour and prayers.
He described the project as a legacy for future generations and urged stakeholders to ensure that it is built with excellence, integrity and transparency.
Chairman of the Conference Central Working Committee, Bishop Dr. Innocent Solomon, commended ministers and participants from the sixteen Local Government Areas and other parts of the state for their participation.
He urged them to take the lessons from the conference back to their communities, particularly in promoting peace, reconciliation, unity and responsible leadership.
The project also received support from the Muslim community.
The Taraba State Forum of Islamic Preachers, led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Muslim Religious Matters, Alhaji Hussaini Ismail, attended the launch and donated ₦500,000 to CAN towards the fundraising initiative.
The gesture was described as a demonstration of interfaith understanding and peaceful coexistence in Taraba State.
The Chief Launcher, Mr. Niyi Adekoya, expressed his appreciation for the initiative, describing Taraba as a blessed land and calling for unity beyond religious differences.
Other speakers, including representatives of the United Methodist Church and traditional institutions, also called for cooperation among religious communities in promoting peace and development.
His Royal Highness, Pastor Dr. Haniel Henlenwheni Banti Daah Kpang Sanwi I, commended CAN leadership for organising the Ministers’ Conference and bringing Christian leaders and other stakeholders together.
The three-day conference, themed “The Church and the State: Partners in God’s Plan in a Changing World,” featured worship, prayer, teachings, leadership engagements and discussions on the role of the Church and its relationship with the State.
The conference ended with donations and pledges towards the proposed Christian Centre, as CAN Taraba called for collective action to turn the vision into reality.
Apex Media Network
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