National Telescope national telescope newspaper
Funmilayo Ojo l Ibadan
The Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde has admonished Christians to remain steadfast and strong in propagating the word of God while positively impacting the nation.
The Governor who was represented by the Chaplain to the State Government, Pastor Dr. Layi Adisa, made the call at the centenary celebration and launching of two hundred and fifty million naira for renovation of the First Baptist Church, Igboho, on Saturday in Ibadan.
The event was tagged ‘Celebration of Divine Upliftment’.
Makinde who lauded the church for the effort and consistency in managing the affairs of the ministry for the past 100 years, prayed for greater strength for the church.
He said, “I commend the leadership, the workers in this Church and the entire Baptist family for not being tired of propagating the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ through your labour in the Lord’s vineyard.
“This celebration of 100 years of existence has established and confirmed the words of Jesus Christ in Matthew 16:18, in that popular scripture, the Lord Jesus said ‘Upon this rock I will build my Church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it’.
He also applauded the impact of the ministry in their host community, Igboho.
“From what I have heard of this Church and the calibre of individuals I see here, I know that the Church has not only been the core of Christianity in this historic town, it has produced great individuals, who have brought glory to the Lord in different endeavours. So, there is a cause to celebrate. There is a cause to rejoice”.
“We cannot relax yet. That popular song says Kristian ma ti wa isinmi. As the Church, your efforts in the peace and stability we enjoy in Oyo State cannot be overlooked.
I appreciate your prayers and support at all times and I crave your indulgence to continue to support our Government”.
He said “the First Baptist Church, Igboho is strong at hundred, it must continue to wax stronger and continue to do greater exploits for the Lord.
He promised that the present administration God has put in place will continue to do everything to ensure that the state is conducive for religious practice and to be fair to all religious bodies.
Adding that he is committed towards religious harmony and peaceful coexistence, stating that they will also continue to support the Church and work with the Church and all religions to make Oyo State a better place than we met it.
He stated his administration has recorded success through the implementation of several projects in the State.
“We are not resting on our oars. This administration will continue to serve you until its last days in office.
“What we want from you is that you continue to pray for us, continue to support us and wherever you notice anything with regards to our activities or policies or you have ideas that can make us serve you better, do not hesitate to inform us. As I always say, if you see something, say something”.
He urged the congregation to remain alive to their civil responsibilities at all times, stating that their relentless support for his administration in Oyo state, is well appreciated.
The celebration of the centenary also featured the launching of N250,000,000,00 (Two hundred and fifty million naira) for renovation of Church Auditorium, interlocking of church surrounding pastorium, English service church, Teenagers church and children church, church planting and five preaching station.
