By:

Edom John

The Archbishop of the Lutheran Church of Christ in Nigeria (LCCN), Most Rev. Dr. Musa Panti Filibus, has called on governments at all levels to take stronger and more decisive action to protect citizens, uphold justice, and promote lasting peace amid Nigeria’s persistent insecurity.

Filibus made the appeal on Wednesday in Demsa, Adamawa State, during the church’s 2026 National Annual Convention.

Addressing the press shortly after his sermon, the Archbishop expressed concern over continued violence and loss of lives across the country, noting that many families remain displaced and traumatised.

“Today, we remember families who have lost loved ones, those displaced from their communities, and others who have lost their livelihoods due to terrorist activities,” he said.

While acknowledging improvements in certain areas of the security landscape, Filibus maintained that more must be done to safeguard lives and property.

The convention, themed “Go and Bear Fruit that Will Last” (John 15:16), held from February 25 to March 1st, marks the 101st annual gathering of the church since its establishment in 1925.

 Filibus described the event as historic, bringing together members, partners, and observers from within and outside Nigeria.

Beyond his appeal to government authorities, the Archbishop challenged Christians to remain steadfast in prayer and to actively promote peace in their communities.

“As Christians, Jesus calls us to pray, stay alert, and be peacemakers. We must seek the peace and prosperity of the city. Religious leaders must speak and act for peace. We must never justify the killing of any innocent person because of religious, ethnic, or political sentiments,” he said.

He further cautioned against divisive religious teachings, warning that some leaders have resorted to messages that fuel misunderstanding rather than foster unity.

Also speaking, the President of the United Church of Christ in Nigeria, Rev. Amos Kiri, described the convention’s theme as a clarion call for Christians to demonstrate their faith through exemplary conduct.

Drawing from John 15:16, Kiri said believers must bear fruits that positively impact society.

“In our society today, our behaviour does not reflect how Christ wants us to live. We must bear fruits worthy of emulation. There must be a renewed understanding of what Christianity truly represents and how we are expected to live as believers in a corrupt world,” he said.