The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, has called on all leaders in the country to emulate the leadership style of Jesus Christ.
Archbishop Ndukuba made this plea while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the Christmas Day Service at the Cathedral Church of Advent in Abuja.
The religious leader emphasized that the ordinary person holds great significance to God, citing the reason for the angels’ announcement of Jesus’ birth to shepherds watching at night.
He highlighted that leadership entails making sacrifices for the people and contributing positively to society. He added, “We want to encourage our leaders to think about the citizens of this nation, to consider how to care for and meet the needs of the people. Leadership is about service, and today we celebrate the best of the King of kings and the Lord of lords.”
Archbishop Ndukuba urged leaders to embody the humility and love demonstrated by Jesus, quoting, “The Son of Man came not to be served but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” He further encouraged leaders, both in the religious and political spheres, to learn from Jesus and serve the people, even if it requires sacrifice.
“Leadership is not about personal gain; it is about giving to the people. Those who have served sacrificially and given to the people will be remembered. We call on the political leadership of our nation to adopt the way of Christ—the way of service. We also call on the people to devote themselves to God and fulfill their duties as citizens for the growth of Nigeria,” he concluded.
Additionally, Rev. Tom Takpatore, the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Garki, spoke about the essence of Christmas as the celebration of God’s faithfulness expressed in the birth of Jesus. He urged Christians to share the good news of salvation and peace with one another and the nation at large.
“Today, we celebrate God giving us His very best, His Son, at Christmas. We should learn sacrifice, giving of ourselves, resources, and abilities for the benefit of our fellow man during Christmas and share joy. A small gesture can make a difference, and forgiveness, kindness, and being kind-hearted cost nothing,” he remarked.
Takpatore expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, stating that the current situation is not the end for the country. He encouraged people to have hope in God’s ability to bring about positive changes, referencing God’s promises in the Bible about thoughts of good for the nation.
“Nigeria will be great again; Nigeria will arise from where we are right now. This is not the end of Nigeria. Let us have hope, mainly in God, who has the ability to do all things and can use people to bring about significant changes,” he concluded.
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