Group urges Christians to engage in civic life for societal transformation
A group known as the Diaspora Alliance Nigeria has urged Christians nationwide to take an active role in civic engagement and community development as a means of driving national transformation.
This call was made during a recent seminar held in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State. Themed “Occupy Till I Come,” the event sought to awaken believers to their responsibility in shaping Nigeria’s future amid growing challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and moral decline.
With over 1,500 attendees—including church leaders, civic advocates, and other key stakeholders—the seminar provided a platform for critical discussions on the moral, economic, and security issues plaguing the country.
The convener, Rev. Emmanuel Ihim, emphasized the need for Christians to extend their influence beyond church walls and engage boldly in public policy and grassroots initiatives.
“Revival is only the beginning. Our divine assignment is to occupy—by engaging, influencing, and transforming every area of society,” he declared.
In his keynote address, Dr. Ikechukwu Nkulo highlighted the worsening poverty and insecurity, which he said have left millions of Nigerians “hungry, fearful, and disillusioned.”
Attorney Lloyd Ukwu, a civic activist and U.S.-trained lawyer, emphasized that democracy can only flourish when moral institutions—especially the Church—stand united and bold.
Rev. Ojo Ojo Uduma, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Abia State chapter, called on the Church to reclaim its prophetic role and be a beacon of light in troubled times.
A major highlight of the seminar was the formal presentation of vision documents to a representative of the Abia State Governor, symbolizing a strategic partnership between the Diaspora Alliance and local authorities to promote community development and civic education.
Pastor Caleb Ajagba, the Governor’s Chief of Staff, lauded the initiative and urged Christians to actively engage across the Seven Mountains of Influence—government, media, education, business, and more. He also encouraged believers to rise into leadership positions and make tangible impact.
The event concluded with prayers and a collective pledge to take action. Participants committed to rebuilding communities, mentoring the next generation, and speaking truth to power.
Organizers expressed hope that the seminar would spark similar movements across Nigeria and within the global diaspora, uniting Christians in their shared mission to be salt and light in these challenging times.
The Diaspora Alliance is a worldwide network of Nigerian Christian professionals, faith leaders, and advocates dedicated to promoting civic engagement, ethical leadership, and sustainable development both in Nigeria and among the diaspora.