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As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, the Plateau State Government and Christian leaders have called on Nigerians to return to the values of integrity, responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence and genuine commitment to the development of the country.

The call was made during an interdenominational Independence Day thanksgiving service held at Nasarawa Baptist Church, Jos, with the theme “Nigeria 66 Years After.” The service brought together government officials, religious leaders and other stakeholders for prayers, reflection and thanksgiving.

Representing Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo, said the anniversary provided an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, challenges and the responsibilities of citizens in building a better nation.

Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the economic difficulties, insecurity, political disagreements and social tensions facing Nigeria, but noted that the country had continued to demonstrate resilience through the contributions of young people, farmers, entrepreneurs, professionals and members of the security forces.

He called on the Church to remain actively engaged in addressing societal challenges, stressing that religious teachings should promote integrity, justice, compassion, reconciliation and responsible citizenship.

“The Church cannot stand apart from the challenges of society; it must continue to be a voice for truth, justice, compassion, reconciliation and responsible citizenship. Our pulpits must produce citizens who understand that leadership is service; that public resources are sacred; that human life is valuable.”

The governor also emphasised the importance of dialogue, forgiveness and justice, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to building a Plateau State anchored on peace, security, good governance, infrastructure development and sustainable economic growth.

The President of the Plateau Baptist Conference, Rev. Dr. K. K. Saleh, who drew his message from Psalm 125, urged Nigerians to examine their relationship with God and recognise that building a safer and better society requires collective responsibility.

According to him, the Church, government and citizens each have important roles to play in addressing insecurity and other societal challenges.

He urged leaders to govern with justice while calling on citizens to uphold honesty, integrity and responsible conduct.

“Vulnerability is not the absence of security presence. Vulnerability is the absence of God’s presence.”

Rev. Saleh further stressed that prayer must be accompanied by responsible action, noting that meaningful transformation requires individuals and institutions to take responsibility for their actions.

The Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Rt. Hon. Joyce Lohya Ramnap, said the service provided an opportunity to thank God and pray for Nigeria and its leaders, particularly in view of the security challenges experienced in Plateau State.

Ramnap said the people of Plateau had continued to demonstrate resilience over the years, explaining that the state’s low-key Independence activities, including prayers in churches and mosques, were designed to encourage citizens to draw strength from their faith while continuing to work towards a peaceful society.

As Nigeria reflects on 66 years of independence, the message from Plateau remains centred on prayer, responsibility, integrity, peaceful coexistence and collective action in the pursuit of a stronger and more united nation.