Gov. Diri Urges Greater Unity Among Christians As New CAN Exco Resumes Office

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has called for greater unity among Christians, stressing that a united Church would be better positioned to fulfil its divine mandate and contribute meaningfully to the development of society.

Hotnews reports that Governor Diri made the call on Monday at the inauguration of the new State Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bayelsa Chapter, held at the Redeemed Glory Family Church, Agudama-Epie, Yenagoa.

Represented by his Deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, the Governor said there was strength in unity and urged Christians to put aside denominational differences, bickering and personal interests in the interest of the body of Christ.

He noted that unity requires sacrifice, love and acceptance, warning that the divisions and political tensions in society should not be allowed to infiltrate the Church.

Governor Diri also charged Christian leaders to preach the true gospel and remain bold in speaking truth to power, stressing that the Church should maintain a non-partisan posture while holding leaders accountable.

He congratulated the outgoing CAN leadership led by Very Reverend Father Joseph Opelema and the newly inaugurated executive, expressing confidence that the new team would strengthen relationships and promote greater unity among Christians in the state.

Inaugurating the new executive, CAN South-South Vice Chairman, Reverend Father Victor Ofili, commended the Bayelsa chapter for its unity and commitment to its obligations at the national level.

He appealed to the state government to sustain its support for CAN.

The new CAN Chairman in Bayelsa, Reverend Abili Samuel Abili, pledged to lead with humility, responsibility and dedication.

He appreciated the Diri administration for its partnership with the Church and commended his predecessor for laying a solid foundation for the association.

Other members of the new executive include Bishop Dotimi Egbegi as Vice Chairman, Reverend Father Raymond Ogiramkopu Ogio as Secretary, and Senior Apostle Michael Makpa as Treasurer.

The ceremony attracted Christian leaders and stakeholders from across the state, including the Member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Chief Fred Agbedi; Chairman of Yenagoa Local Government Area, Mr. Bulodisiye Ndiwari; Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, High Chief Collins Cocodia; and CAN South-South Secretary, Bishop Lazarus Azia.

~ Hot News Reporters
Thursday 27, August, 2026