Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has emphasized the importance of unity among Christians to enable the Church to fulfill its divine mission in the state and beyond. This call for solidarity was made during the inauguration of the new State Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Bayelsa Chapter, held at the Redeemed Glory Family Church in Yenagoa.

Represented by his deputy, Dr. Peter Akpe, Diri highlighted that a united Christian community possesses the strength needed to make significant contributions to society. He pointed out that current divisions within the Church, marked by bickering and personal ambitions, hinder its effectiveness.

"Unity comes with sacrifice," Diri stated, stressing that for Christians to work together harmoniously, they must embrace love and acceptance across denominational lines. He lamented the prevalent discord within the Church, which he believes has been exacerbated by political tensions spilling over into religious spaces.

The governor urged the Church to remain steadfast in preaching the true gospel and to hold leaders accountable without fear. He stated, "As long as the body of Christ is united, there is nothing we cannot achieve. The devil knows this, and that is why he fights the unity of the Church to make it impossible for the Church to achieve its purpose."

During the ceremony, Diri congratulated the outgoing leadership of Rev. Father Joseph Opelema and expressed confidence that the newly inaugurated council would strengthen relationships within the Christian community in Bayelsa.

Rev. Father Victor Ofili, the CAN South-South Vice Chairman, who officiated the inauguration, praised the Bayelsa chapter for its existing unity and financial responsibility at the national level. He also called on the state government to continue its support for CAN at both state and regional levels.

In his acceptance speech, the new Chairman of the Bayelsa Chapter, Rev. Abili Samuel Abili, pledged to lead with humility and a strong sense of responsibility. He expressed gratitude to the Diri administration for fostering a supportive environment for the Church and acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor, Very Rev. Father Joseph Opelema.

The new executive council includes Bishop Dotimi Egbegi as Vice Chairman, Rev. Father Raymond Ogiramkopu Ogio as Secretary, and Senior Apostle Michael Makpa as Treasurer. The inauguration ceremony was well-attended, featuring notable figures such as Chief Fred Agbedi, the member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, and other dignitaries from across the state.