The Vice President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Rev. Stephen Panya, on Friday called for national unity, urging the nation’s leaders to embrace righteousness in governance.

Mr Panya made this call in Abuja at the National Day of Prayer 2025, organised by the CAN with the theme: “Dependable God.”

The event brought together religious leaders and citizens to reflect on the nation’s challenges and seek divine intervention.

The event underscored the role of faith in uniting citizens across denominations to pray for solutions to insecurity, economic uncertainties, and other challenges facing the nation.

Mr Panya emphasised the importance of collective prayer for national progress and divine intervention.

Speaking to journalists during an interview, he said that such gatherings were crucial for fostering unity and addressing pressing national challenges.

The cleric expressed confidence in the power of prayer, citing biblical promises that encourage seeking God’s guidance.

He said, “We believe God has heard our prayers, and in the coming days, we trust to see manifestations of peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria, spiritually, socially, and economically.”

He also urged national leaders to embrace righteousness in governance, referencing the book of Proverbs which says, “Righteousness exalts a nation.”

According to him, moral leadership is essential for uplifting Nigeria among the global community.

Mr Panya urged leaders to obey the Constitution, adding that Nigeria should not be a lawless country.

“This country should be ruled based on the Constitution,” he said.

The guest speaker at the event, Rev. John Praise, explained the importance of coupling prayer with action, urging Nigerians to uphold justice, obey the constitution, and combat corruption.

Highlighting past national recoveries during crises, he expressed faith in God’s mercy while stressing individual responsibility for change.

“It’s not just about leaders; every Nigerian must commit to righteousness and integrity. This event teaches us that collective effort and faith can guide the nation toward progress and unity. So, we came to pray depending on the God who never fails. The God that has stood for us as a nation, even when things were so bad and we never thought we’d come out of it. We believe that as we keep praying, God will keep showing us mercy. But more so, we want to ask our leaders to do the needful,” he said.

(NAN)