Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called for stronger collaboration between government and religious institutions to raise disciplined, cultured and responsible young people capable of providing effective leadership for Nigeria’s future.
Abiodun made the call at the Golden Jubilee Thanksgiving Service of the Egba Anglican Diocese held at St. Peter’s Cathedral, Ake, Abeokuta.
The governor said government had a responsibility to provide infrastructure, quality education and economic opportunities, while the Church and other faith-based organisations must complement these efforts by strengthening families, building character and instilling sound moral values in young people.
He described the 50th anniversary of the Egba Anglican Diocese, which coincides with Ogun State’s own golden jubilee, as an opportunity to reflect on the state’s journey and renew the collective commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and united society.
Abiodun stressed that meaningful development must extend beyond physical infrastructure to include deliberate investment in human capital and character formation.
He also warned that rapid advances in technology and artificial intelligence must not undermine truth, wisdom, conscience and moral responsibility.
“The future we seek to build must be a future where technological advancement is matched by moral advancement; where artificial intelligence does not replace human wisdom, conscience and responsibility,” he said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to religious harmony and peaceful coexistence, describing the mutual respect among Ogun’s various faith communities as a major strength of the state.
He assured religious leaders that the government would continue to work with them to promote peace, unity, responsible citizenship and values that strengthen families and society.
As part of the anniversary activities, Abiodun unveiled the commemorative plaque of the six-floor Cathedral Tower, describing the edifice as a symbol of a generation that believed in God, invested in His work and prepared responsibly for the future.
In his sermon, titled “The Call Like Moses and the Strength Like Caleb,” the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of All Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, urged Christians to respond to God’s call with renewed commitment, courage and strength.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly Oludaisi Elemide, Secretary to the State Government Tokunbo Talabi, former Chief of Staff Toyin Taiwo and the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo.
