JUSTICE, UNITY, AND A CALL TO NATIONAL CONSCIENCE: CCN HOLDS HISTORIC STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING IN LAGOS

📰 Uruakpa, Onyemaechi Charles, CCN News Correspondent, Abuja

Lagos, Nigeria – March 19, 2026

In a time when Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads of leadership, unity, and national identity, the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) today convened its National Standing Committee Meeting at the First African Mission, Jehovah Shalom Cathedral, Lagos—delivering a powerful and prophetic voice to the Church and the nation.

The gathering brought together delegates from across the federation—leaders of member churches, ecumenical stakeholders, and representatives committed to advancing the mission of the Church in Nigeria.

A GATHERING OF PURPOSE AND SACRIFICE

In his Presidential Address, the CCN National President, Most Rev. Dr. David O.C. Onuoha, warmly welcomed delegates, acknowledging the sacrifices made to attend despite economic and security challenges.

He described their presence as a “testament to unwavering commitment to the vision and mission of the Council.”

The meeting also reaffirmed the Council’s direction following the successful 32nd General Assembly held in Abuja in November 2025.

THEME SPOTLIGHT: A DIVINE CALL TO JUSTICE

Theme: God’s Demand for Justice and Righteousness (Amos 5:24)

Sub-theme: The Golden Rule and the Search for Peace, Unity and Development in Nigeria

At the heart of deliberations was a resounding message: Nigeria cannot achieve peace, unity, or sustainable development without justice and righteous living.

Drawing from Scripture and global ethical traditions, the President emphasized the Golden Rule—“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you”—as a universal principle capable of healing divisions and restoring national harmony.

MATTERS OF NATIONAL CONCERN RAISED

1. The Road to 2027 Elections

The Council expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s electoral process, warning against:

• Manipulated electoral systems
• The drift toward a one-party state
• Erosion of democratic integrity

The CCN cautioned that such trends could lead to dictatorship and national instability, urging transparency and accountability in the electoral system.

2. Worsening Energy Crisis

The Council lamented the persistent collapse of Nigeria’s power sector and rising fuel costs, describing the situation as:

• A burden on citizens
• A contradiction of national resource potential

While acknowledging policy efforts such as subsidy removal and refinery developments, the Council stressed the urgent need for systemic reforms and responsible leadership.

🎓 STRATEGIC INITIATIVES ANNOUNCED

In a forward-looking move, the CCN unveiled a scholarship program set to commence in September 2026, targeting:

• Vulnerable children, especially from IDP camps
• Equal representation across northern zones

This initiative reflects the Council’s commitment to education, equity, and national rebuilding.

THE GOLDEN RULE: A PATHWAY TO NATIONAL TRANSFORMATION

A central highlight of the address was the deep theological and moral exposition of the Golden Rule as:

• A universal law across religions
• A foundation for peace and justice
• A tool for dismantling ethnic, religious, and political divisions

The Council emphasized that:

“Sustainable development is difficult without peace, and peace is not difficult with the practice of the Golden Rule.”

From governance to everyday human relationships, leaders were challenged to embrace empathy, fairness, and integrity in decision-making.

The meeting carried both spiritual solemnity and national urgency.

📢 A PROPHETIC CHARGE TO THE CHURCH AND NATION

In conclusion, the CCN issued a strong call:

• To government: Prioritize justice, fairness, and people-centered policies
• To church leaders: Lead by example in promoting unity and ethical living
• To citizens: Embrace the Golden Rule as a lifestyle

The President declared that Nigeria’s healing begins when humanity is placed above ethnicity, religion, and self-interest.

✝️ Conclusion

The CCN Standing Committee Meeting 2026 stands as a significant moment in Nigeria’s religious and national discourse—offering both spiritual guidance and practical solutions to pressing challenges.

As the nation approaches a crucial political season, the voice of the Church remains clear:

Justice, unity, and righteousness are not optional—they are the foundation of a thriving Nigeria.

The Church remains the conscience of the nation.