…Say such designation could escalate violence, weaken security response
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
Christian leaders under the auspices of the Ministers’ Conference of the Baptist Theological Seminary, Kaduna, Nigeria Baptist Convention, have cautioned against labeling Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) over alleged violations of religious freedom, warning that such action could escalate violence and undermine national security efforts.
The warning was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the 65th Annual Ministers’ Conference held in Kaduna from 6th to 10th October 2025, signed by the Chairman, Board of Governors, Rev. Joseph John Hayab, and the Acting President of the Seminary, Rev. Dr. Mannaseh Panpe.
According to the communiqué, delegates expressed concern that designating Nigeria as a CPC could limit access to international military assistance and legitimate security equipment, thereby weakening the nation’s capacity to combat terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes.
While acknowledging that Christians in Nigeria face persecution and discrimination, the conference appealed to foreign governments and international bodies not to place Nigeria on the CPC list, noting that such a move would not address the root causes of insecurity or religious tension.
“Labeling Nigeria as a CPC could inadvertently escalate violence by restricting access to military and security support, which are crucial in tackling terrorism and insurgency,” the communiqué stated.
The conference urged foreign partners to adopt constructive and collaborative measures to support Nigeria in addressing its security and religious freedom challenges.
Delegates also lamented the worsening hardship in the country, noting that banditry, unemployment, and economic instability have eroded livelihoods and weakened community cohesion. They called on the government to lead with the fear of God, formulate people-centered policies, and prioritize human welfare over political interests.
The communiqué further cautioned against extravagant wedding and burial ceremonies that impose financial burdens on families under the guise of cultural tradition. It stressed that the Holy Scriptures remain superior to societal norms and called on churches to promote moderation and godly marriages that honor Christ.
Expressing concern over the growing silence of some church leaders on moral and social issues, the conference warned that such silence undermines the Church’s moral authority. It urged ministers to “speak truth to power with wisdom and courage,” emphasizing that the Church must remain the conscience of the nation and a voice for the voiceless.
The Board of Governors reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening theological education and leadership development, commending the Seminary’s ongoing reforms and partnership with Bethel High School as a model of vision-driven Christian education. It also announced plans to appoint a substantive President soon.
Delegates expressed worry over voter apathy among Christians and urged pastors to mobilize members to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing political participation as both a civic and moral duty.
While acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in improving national unity and security coordination, the conference urged governments at all levels to sustain reforms, strengthen local peacebuilding initiatives, and ensure justice and welfare for victims of violence.
The conference, themed “The Authority of Scripture and the Mission of the Church in Troubled Times,” brought together pastors, theologians, and church leaders from across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), representing a community of about four million Baptist members, over 4,000 pastors, and more than 5,000 local churches.
Delegates reaffirmed the absolute authority of the Holy Scriptures as the inspired Word of God and the final guide for faith, morality, and conduct, stressing that obedience to God’s Word remains the only path to spiritual renewal, moral reformation, and lasting national peace.
