New CAN Leaders Inaugurated As Christians Mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence in Taraba
By Mohammed Tikka
Christians from across Taraba State came together on Wednesday, October 1st, 2025, at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Secretariat in Jalingo to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary with a thanksgiving service. The event also marked the official inauguration of the newly elected executive leadership of CAN in Taraba State. It was a moment of reflection, renewal, and re-commitment to faith, unity, and progress for both the Church and the state.
Representing the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters, Very Rev. Fr. Sunday Muke Patrick, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the state government. The governor congratulated Nigerians on the milestone Independence celebration and described it as a time to reflect with gratitude on the journey so far as a nation.
He emphasized the need for continued unity and peaceful coexistence among all citizens, noting that the state government remains committed to building a prosperous Taraba where everyone can thrive. The governor also extended warm congratulations to the newly inaugurated CAN executives, reminding them that leadership is both a sacred trust and a profound responsibility.
Dr. Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s strong partnership with the Christian community, especially through CAN, and pledged continued collaboration in promoting the spiritual and social well-being of Tarabans. He urged the new CAN leadership to promote unity among denominations, remain a beacon of Christian witness, and contribute meaningfully to the peace and development of the state.
In his inaugural address, the new CAN Chairman for Taraba State, Very Rev. Fr. Dr. Williams Peter Awoshiri, expressed humility and gratitude, acknowledging that his elevation to leadership was not by personal merit but through divine grace. “God does not call the qualified; He qualifies those He calls,” he said, quoting Exodus to affirm his belief in God’s purpose for his new role.
Fr. Awoshiri described the inauguration as more than a ceremonial transition, it was a defining moment for the Church in Taraba. He called on all Christians and CAN executives to rededicate themselves to God, to selfless service, and to the pursuit of justice, truth, and peace. He reminded his fellow leaders of their sacred calling as witnesses to Christ and custodians of the moral conscience of society.
He strongly addressed the issue of disunity within the Christian fold, decrying the rise of what he called the “Gospel of the stomach”, a self-centered approach that prioritizes personal gain over true spiritual leadership. He said such divisions have weakened the Church’s impact and dishonoured the glory of God. He urged CAN leaders to return to the founding mission of the association: to foster Christian unity and serve as a strong, united moral voice in society.
To political leaders, the CAN chairman offered a clear and honest message: Tarabans want good governance, He called for integrity, transparency, and the delivery of essential services such as food security, clean water, education, healthcare, housing, and infrastructure.
Fr. Awoshiri also extended a hand of friendship to the Muslim community and other faith groups in the state. He stressed that the Church does not exist in isolation and that peace, mutual respect, and collaboration among faiths are essential for Taraba’s growth and stability. He concluded by urging all Christians to embrace this new chapter in CAN as a renewed commitment to God, to one another, and to the progress of both the state and the nation.
Delivering the keynote address at the event, the guest speaker, Rev. Dr. Victor Audu, spoke on the theme “The Yearning for a Different Dawn.” He reflected on the challenges facing Taraba and Nigeria at large, especially the lack of development despite the state’s vast natural resources. Comparing Taraba’s situation with that of neighbouring states that have made noticeable progress, he called for introspection and a collective push for change.
Rev. Audu emphasized the need for visionary and selfless leadership, both in government and in the Church. He challenged citizens and leaders alike to take responsibility and work together for a better future. His message was a passionate plea for unity, accountability, and a renewed drive towards development and justice.
The thanksgiving and inauguration service ended on a hopeful note, with renewed prayers and commitment to peace, progress, and spiritual revival in Taraba State and Nigeria as a whole.
