The secretary-general of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Father Michael Banjo, has been a strong advocate for peace and integrity in the country. With his unwavering commitment to promoting the values of honesty, compassion, and service, Father Banjo has become a beacon of hope for many Nigerians, especially during these challenging times.
In his recent message for Christmas, delivered during the festival of Lessons and Carols at the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, Father Banjo highlighted the importance of making informed choices, especially during elections and amid the country’s security crisis. He emphasized that vices such as dishonesty, corruption, and exploitation are major obstacles to peace and warned of the dangers of ungodliness.
Father Banjo urged Nigerians to safeguard their future by voting for leaders of integrity, compassion, and proven character. He stressed the need to choose leaders who fear God and truly serve the common good, rather than those who prioritize personal gain and narrow interests. He reminded the people that when leaders govern without fear of God, conscience gives way to selfishness, injustice grows unchecked, and violence finds room to thrive.
The secretary-general of the Catholic bishops in Nigeria also highlighted the role of accountability in promoting peace. He stated that peace is impossible where power is exercised without accountability, wealth is pursued without conscience, and authority is claimed without service. He called out those who compromise their civic duty for short-term gain, stating that there can be no peace when votes are traded for personal benefit or when leaders are chosen based on tribe, religion, or region rather than character and competence.
Father Banjo also addressed the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, attributing them to widespread ungodliness. He noted that many Nigerians have sidelined the glory of God in their actions and prioritized vices that threaten the country’s future. He called for an end to the culture of silence, denial, and half-measures in addressing the persistent killings, abductions, and targeted violence affecting many communities, particularly Christian communities.
Reflecting on the recent intervention of the United States in the country’s security crisis, Father Banjo expressed his disappointment that Nigeria had to wait for external voices before treating the problem with the seriousness it deserves. He reminded the government that protecting life is not a favor prompted by foreign pressure, but rather a primary duty. He emphasized that every Nigerian life matters, regardless of their religion or ethnicity.
Father Banjo also warned against the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of honesty and integrity. He stated that while engaging in fraudulent or exploitative practices may bring temporary benefits, they fail to glorify God and cannot provide lasting peace. He urged Nigerians to remember that there can be no peace within us when money is made through fraud, corruption, or exploitation.
The secretary-general of the Catholic bishops in Nigeria also highlighted the importance of forgiveness and respect in promoting peace within families. He noted that peace disappears where resentment, violence, or disrespect prevail. He called for a culture of forgiveness, love, and mutual respect in homes, stating that it is in such an environment that God is honored and peace is enshrined.
Father Banjo emphasized that a nation that honors God by protecting every human life is a nation where peace can take root. He reminded Nigerians that the message of Christmas is one of hope and reassurance that God is with us, even in the face of hardship. He urged the people to choose gratitude over bitterness, to share what little they have with those in need, and to remain warm and compassionate towards one another.
In conclusion, Father Banjo’s message for Christmas serves as a reminder to all Nigerians that peace is possible, but it requires a collective effort. It is a call to action to choose leaders who prioritize the common good and to reject vices that threaten the country’s future. It is a reminder that God is with us, and with His grace, we can overcome any challenge and build a peaceful and prosperous nation. Let us heed Father Banjo’s words and work towards a better future for ourselves and our country.
