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Church urged to engage in governance for community development in Enugu

Former aviation minister emphasizes the importance of church involvement in politics at CCGG launch.

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By NigerianNewsFeed NewsDesk Admin
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Church urged to engage in governance for community development in Enugu
Photo: Punch Newspapers

A former Minister of Aviation, Ambassador Fidelia Njeze, has called for active church participation in governance, asserting that a church that distances itself from political matters does not prioritize the well-being of its community. Njeze made these remarks during the launch of the Church for Community Care and Good Governance (CCGG) initiative in Enugu, organized by the Catholic Institute for Development, Justice and Peace under the Catholic Diocese of Enugu.

The event, themed ‘Our Faith, Our Community, Our Future,’ attracted church leaders, government officials, and community representatives, highlighting the significance of collaboration between the Church and the government. Njeze emphasized the partnership with the Enugu State Government, led by Governor Peter Mbah, as a testament to a caring administration. She stated, "It shows that we have a government that cares for the people. When you see a government that wants to partner the church, it is a clear indication that that government wants to care for the people."

According to Njeze, the Church serves as a vital conduit for community engagement and intervention. She argued that the Church's involvement in governance is essential for effective critique and support of government actions. "The church cannot separate itself from politics. Any church that separates itself from government means that church doesn’t want government to perform well," she asserted.

Rev. Fr. Longinus Ugonwa, the Project Lead of CCGG and Vicar for Public Relations of the Catholic Diocese of Enugu, echoed Njeze's sentiments. He articulated that the initiative was founded on the belief that faith should have a tangible impact on people's lives. Ugonwa remarked, "What is the value of a faith that does not touch the lives of the people around us? Our faith must be seen in the way we care for one another, respond to human needs, promote justice and contribute to the development of our communities."

He clarified that CCGG is not a political party and will not engage in promoting or attacking political figures, emphasizing its commitment to non-partisanship and the common good.

Pastor Dan Anike, Chairman of Enugu East Local Government Area, praised the Church for its proactive approach, noting that the initiative signifies a shift from advisory roles to practical interventions. He highlighted the positive impact of the Church’s collaboration with the government, citing successful projects such as the Smart School, primary healthcare centre, and improved road infrastructure as evidence of this partnership’s effectiveness.

The event culminated in the unveiling of CCGG promotional materials, including caps and banners, marking the official launch of the initiative and its accompanying Community and Civic Festival.

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