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  • There Is Time And Season. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr John Ike Igiri CMT, At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja

    There Is Time And Season. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr John Ike Igiri CMT, At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja

     

    There is a time for everything under heaven. Yesterday it rained within the environs of Ogoja. By implication, the dry season is gradually fading away. In the same way, the Church also moves through different liturgical seasons, each with its own purpose and grace.

    The Church celebrates four main seasons: Advent, Christmas, Lent and Ordinary Time.

    During Advent, we prepare for the Second Coming of Christ. Advent ushers us into the joyful celebration of Christmas, where we celebrate the birth of our Savior. After Christmas, we enter a short period of Ordinary Time Six weeks, and now we find ourselves in the holy season of Lent.

    Lent is the season in which we celebrate and prepare for the Paschal Mystery, the suffering, death, and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. The Church presents readings that reflect this sacred season. It is a time to refrain from sin, to give alms, and to fast. In doing these, the Church calls us to be spiritually alive, to turn away from wickedness and embrace love.

    The first reading invites us to open our hearts and recognize that we have offended God and our neighbors. God desires not merely external signs like wearing sackcloth, but true interior conversion. He calls us including the children seated here to turn away from sinful ways and embrace righteousness.

    During this season, the Church invites us to reflect deeply on three important spiritual practices: Prayer, Fasting, and Almsgiving (Charity)

    We are called to intensify our prayer life. It is through prayer that we overcome the challenges of life. Prayer strengthens our relationship with God and keeps us spiritually alert.

    The Church encourages fasting, often through abstinence. But the best form of fasting is abstaining from sin and immorality. When we abstain from food, we discipline the body and strengthen the spirit so that it does not lead us away from God. True fasting also means detaching ourselves from material excess so that we may share with the poor. There is none of us who does not have something to give.

    This period also calls us to offer good and charitable words. When we speak ill of others, we damage their dignity. Let our words build up, not destroy.

    As our Lord teaches us “I was hungry and you gave me food.” Recently, Pope Francis encouraged us to be charitable even in our thoughts and words.

    Charity is said to begins at home. Some of our homes are in chaos because we are not charitable in speech toward our husbands, wives, and children. We may not always have material things to give, but we can always give kind and loving words.

    In the Gospel, Jesus teaches us not to fast like hypocrites. When we give alms, it should not be for public recognition. Those who seek public praise have already received their reward. Our acts of prayer, fasting, and charity must come from sincere hearts.

    My prayer is that God, who has given us the grace to be among the living today, will grant us the strength to express kindness in all we do. May He help us to turn away from sin, embrace love, and live this season faithfully.

    Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  • Ash Wednesday: A Call to Return to God. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ovia Ekpe 

    Ash Wednesday: A Call to Return to God. Being A Sermon Delivered By Rev Fr Felix Ovia Ekpe 

    Ash Wednesday: A Call to Return to God

    By Rev Fr Felix Ovia Ekpe

    Today, on Ash Wednesday, the Church begins the sacred season of Lent with a powerful call: “Return to the Lord with all your heart.” This day marks a solemn invitation to repentance, renewal, and reconciliation with God.

    The practice of administering ashes has deep biblical roots. In ancient times, penitents covered themselves with ashes as an outward sign of sorrow for sin and true repentance. Ashes symbolized humility, mourning, and a sincere turning back to God. People would sit in sackcloth and ashes to show contrition and acknowledge their unworthiness before the Lord.

    The ashes used on Ash Wednesday are traditionally obtained from the burning of palm branches blessed on the previous year’s Palm Sunday. These ashes are blessed and then placed on the forehead of the faithful in the shape of a cross. As this is done, the minister says:
    “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”

    This reminds us of our human frailty and mortality. We come from the soil, and at the end of our earthly sojourn, we shall return to it. The ashes are therefore an external sign of repentance and a visible reminder that life is temporary, calling us to live wisely and faithfully.

    Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the forty days of Lent, a season of preparation for Easter. The number 40 holds profound significance in Scripture. It represents a period of trial, purification, testing, and preparation.

    The significance of 40 includes: The flood in the time of Noah lasted 40 days and 40 nights. Moses stayed on Mount Sinai for 40 days and 40 nights in the presence of God. The Israelites wandered in the wilderness for 40 years before entering the Promised Land. The prophet Elijah journeyed for 40 days and 40 nights to Mount Horeb. The people of Nineveh fasted in repentance at the preaching of Jonah. Most importantly, Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights in the wilderness before beginning His public ministry.

    Thus, the number 40 signifies a sacred period of preparation, testing, repentance, and transformation. Lent follows this biblical pattern. It is a time of renewal and reconciliation.

    The readings of this season echo a consistent message, Return to me with all your heart.

    God does not merely ask for outward signs, He desires a sincere conversion of heart. During this period of Lent, the Lord counsels us to return fully to Him.

    In the second reading, St. Paul urges us to be reconciled with God and not to receive His grace in vain. He encourages us to observe Lent in a way that truly brings glory to God not merely outwardly, but from the heart.

    Lent is traditionally marked by three spiritual pillars:
    Prayer: Deepening our relationship with God and journeying with Jesus.
    Fasting: Practicing self-denial and discipline.
    Almsgiving: Showing charity and generosity to others.

    Fasting is not for everyone. Those who are aged or ill and taking medication are exempted by the Church. But fasting goes beyond abstaining from food.

    We are called to fast from, Gossip and destructive speech. Anger and bitterness. Pride and selfishness. Alcohol, cigarettes, and unhealthy habits. Stinginess and lack of charity.

    Sometimes we destroy others with careless words, repeating stories as though we were present when they happened. Lent challenges us to abstain from such behavior. Fasting becomes meaningful when it transforms our hearts.

    Lent is also a time to increase our generosity. Acts of charity do not need to be public. A priest once shared the story of a woman who quietly provided candles for the chapel without anyone knowing. Such hidden acts of love please God deeply. Jesus teaches us in the Gospel that when we fast, pray, or give alms, we should not do so to be seen by others. We do not put on gloomy faces to advertise our sacrifice. True Lenten discipline is done in humility, for God alone.

    Lent is a period of self-sacrifice and self-denial, but it is also a journey towards joy. It prepares us for the resurrection. We are not restricted to doing good only during Lent; rather, Lent trains us to live faithfully throughout the year.

    As we begin this sacred season, may our sacrifices lead to genuine renewal. May our prayer, fasting, and charity draw us closer to Christ. And may this Lenten journey fill our Christian lives with lasting joy.

    Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

  • Jarigbe Agom: Champion of Results, Voice of the People BY ELIJAH UGANI 

    Jarigbe Agom: Champion of Results, Voice of the People BY ELIJAH UGANI 

     

    Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe stands as a proven leader whose record in office reflects performance, accessibility, and unwavering commitment to the people of Cross River North Senatorial District.

    From the floor of the National Assembly to the most remote communities in Cross River State, Senator Jarigbe has built a reputation as a lawmaker who delivers tangible results. His legislative interventions focus on economic empowerment, infrastructure development, youth inclusion, education support, and policies that strengthen local opportunities. He has consistently demonstrated that representation must go beyond speeches, and that it must translate into measurable progress at home.

    Under his leadership, communities across Cross River North have witnessed strategic infrastructural projects, empowerment initiatives for women and youths, scholarship support programs, and sustained constituency engagement. His open door approach and regular consultations with traditional leaders, stakeholders, and grassroots groups have deepened trust and strengthened participatory governance in the district.

    Senator Jarigbe’s commitment to service has earned him widespread recognition, including:
    ICON of Humanitarian Service Award (2019) and Legislator of the Year (2020) by African Custodian.

    ICON of Nation Building Award (2021) and Global Peace and Humanitarian Award (2022) reportedly conferred in association with the United Nations.

    Cross River’s Most Outstanding Senator of the Year (2024) by Yala Achievers Summit & Award
    Excellent Representation Award (2025) by Cross River State Journalists Forum.

    These recognitions underscore what his constituents already know: Senator Jarigbe represents with purpose, passion, and performance.

    As a prominent leader within the All Progressives Congress (APC), he is widely regarded by supporters as a formidable frontrunner heading into the 2027 Senate race for Cross River North. His growing profile, expanding grassroots support base, and proven track record position him as a candidate of continuity, stability, and accelerated development.

    Driven by the belief that public office is a trust, Senator Jarigbe remains committed to expanding opportunities, strengthening infrastructure, and ensuring that every community in Cross River North has a strong and effective voice at the national level.

    Elijah Ugani
    Public Affairs Analyst and Commentator
    Community Mobilzer
    Social Change Agent
    He writes from the Hills of Ukwortung

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Elijah Ugani and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/with 

  • Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja LGA

    Jarigbe Facilitates Construction of Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja LGA

     

    The Senator representing Cross River North Senatorial District, Jarigbe Agom Jarigbe, has facilitated the construction of the Ibil–Ekwaro Road in Ogoja Local Government Area.

    The project was officially handed over to JRB Construction, the firm awarded the contract, by the Constituency Officer, Mr. Egar Mgbantul, on behalf of the Senator.

    Speaking during the handover ceremony, Mgbantul charged the contractor to ensure the delivery of a high-quality and durable project capable of standing the test of time. He emphasized the importance of adhering to specifications and completing the project within the stipulated timeframe.

    The Ibil–Ekwaro Road serves as a vital link between the Ibil and Ekajuk communities. Upon completion, it is expected to significantly improve access and mobility for residents, most of whom are engaged in agriculture. The road will enhance the transportation of farm produce to markets, stimulate local economic activities, and improve overall socio-economic development in the area.

    Constituents have expressed appreciation to the lawmaker for facilitating the project, offering prayers for continued wisdom, strength, and success in his service to the people.

    TEAM JARI MEDIA

  • Freedom Of Choice: When God Created Man And Endowed Him With Freedom, He Meant That We Should Use That Freedom Towards Enhancing The Created Order BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Freedom Of Choice: When God Created Man And Endowed Him With Freedom, He Meant That We Should Use That Freedom Towards Enhancing The Created Order BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Being A sermon by Rev Fr Peter Obele Abue PhD.

    So good we are talking about freedom of choice, right after Valentine’s day.

    The book of Sirach 15:15-20, especially verses 17-20 clearly spells out the fact that God has given us humans, freedom to choose what we desire. “Before everyone are life and death, whichever they choose will be given them. Immense is the wisdom of the Lord; mighty in power, He sees all things. The eyes of God behold his works, and he understands every human deed. He never commands anyone to sin, nor shows leniency toward deceivers.” This same God commanded us in the scriptures “You shall not kill, you shall not commit adultery (cf. Ex 20).”

    In America today, for example, there is this great divide between those who say they are “Pro-choice” and others who refer to themselves as “Pro-life”. The argument gets hot each year in January as both parties fight over the famous Roe vs Wade controversy. But let’s think about it for a while; what really does it mean to be Pro-choice and Pro-life?

    Those who argue that freedom of choice permits them to choose to do whatever they like (with their bodies), say that no one can impose judgment on what they choose to do.
    The question is: does that freedom make your action(s) reasonable before God?, since you also claim you believe in God. Read your bible and notice how Jesus differentiates the old and new understanding of these injunctions versus your right to choose to do what you like. He clearly says he has not come to wipe out or water down these injunctions, but to re-enforce them (Mt 5: 17).
    Jesus shocked his listeners by saying that even the mere contemplation of these acts is sin (Mt 5: 17-37). Why then would anyone argue that he or she is free to interpret these laws according to their own whims?

    When God created man and endowed him with freedom, he meant that we should use that freedom towards enhancing the created order, not to re-create our own universe through erroneous thinking, causing more confusion.

    Today, we circumvents all these commandments with the excuse of freedom of choice, in order to create caveats that will permit us to do “whatever we like”. Today, we have all kinds of disjointed ‘freedom’ fighters: gay right activists, animal right activists, etc without a thought on what appeals to common sense of to the law of God. The truth remains thus: You cannot choose to do wrong and call it freedom of choice.

    The arguments will continue but the truth will always prevail and truth needs no defense.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Obele Abue PhD, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/with.

  • Freedom Of Choice: Being A Sermon Delivered During 6:00am Mass At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja BY REV FR FELIX EKPE 

    Freedom Of Choice: Being A Sermon Delivered During 6:00am Mass At Holy Trinity Parish Ogboja-Ogoja BY REV FR FELIX EKPE 

     

    Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A.
    15th February, 2026.

    Freedom of choice is central to our human existence. Every aspect of our lives has to do with choosing. Even when you refuse to choose, you have already made a choice. There is something beautiful about God: He gives us free will. He respects our freedom. He does not force us. But for every choice we make, there is a corresponding consequence.

    In the First Reading, we are reminded: “If you will, you can keep the commandments, and they will save you.” When you keep the commandments that guide marriage, family life, work, and every aspect of your life, they will serve you and you shall live.

    God has placed before you fire and water. Stretch forth your hand and take what you want.
    Before a person dies physically, he first dies inside. You hear people say, “I cannot make it.” The moment you accept defeat within, the battle is already lost. But I once heard of a woman who refused to die. She had a fighting spirit.

    God says: I place before you good and evil. You can choose to be: A good Christian, a faithful wife or husband, an obedient child, a responsible civil servant, a good neighbour, or you can choose the opposite. Just know this, whatever you choose carries consequences.

    You can choose to serve God in His house. Some say they have no time, not for the choir, not for the charismatic group, not for any service. But choosing not to serve is also a choice. So, choose wisely.

    As a counsellor, I have seen marriages crumble within months. Why Because some people married simply because their friends were getting married. Marriage is not competition. You can choose to make your marriage work.

    Greatness does not happen overnight. To become somebody tomorrow is not the product of waking up one day and becoming great. It is the product of daily choices, small, consistent, disciplined choices.
    You can choose to live recklessly, drinking everything you see, living carelessly. But at 35, when health problems begin, you will face the consequences of yesterday’s choices.
    Marriage should build your faith and make you think responsibly about your family.

    I remember when I was much younger, driving from Abuja to Apiapum in Obubra Local Government Area. I picked up a man on the road. We were driving very fast. When we reached Makurdi, he said, “Father, I want to stop here.” I asked why. He said, “Father, I have a wife and four children.”

    At that moment, I understood the value he placed on his life and his family. For the rest of the journey, we drove like a snail.

    When you place value on yourself, others will value you. Some of you are always present at every friend’s occasion, but when it is your turn, they do not show up. Learn to value yourself. Stop forcing yourself where you are not valued.

    When you come to the house of God, do not hide. Serve. Let people talk about you. When people talk about you, it means you matter.
    The eyes of the Lord are upon those who fear Him. When you choose, He knows. So choose good. Choose to forgive your spouse. Choose peace over quarrels and fights.

    Jesus says, “If you are offering your gift at the altar and remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there. Go and reconcile first, then come back and offer your gift.”

    Some of you carry people in your heart like tenants who refuse to pay rent. You keep grudges. You think you are hurting them, but you are only hurting yourself, causing yourself high blood pressure. Some even keep records, long notes of every wrong their spouse has done from January to December. Yet many have not gone for the Sacrament of Reconciliation all year.

    When you choose wisely: The blessings of God will come upon you. The favour of God will rest on you. Peace will dwell in your home.

    Today, God still places before you life and death, good and evil, fire and water.

    Stretch forth your hand and choose life.

    Compiled By Elijah Ugani

  • A Tribute Of Gratitude, And Radiant Impact To Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor @ 60 BY DAVE IMBUA

    A Tribute Of Gratitude, And Radiant Impact To Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor @ 60 BY DAVE IMBUA

     

    When I arrived at the Department of History and International Studies, University of Calabar as a young undergraduate, Dr. Sandy Onor – as he was then known – was not physically present. Yet his name filled the air. He had left to serve as Executive Chairman of Etung Local Government Area, but in the classrooms and corridors, he remained a standard. Lecturers invoked him as a model of brilliance, discipline, integrity, and academic distinction. Even in absence, he reigned supreme.

    Years later (in 2012 to be precise), destiny granted me the rare privilege of meeting him in person. He was then Commissioner for Environment in Cross River State; I was Lecturer II in the University of Calabar. Through his late bosom friend, Dr. James Ewah, he invited me to see him. That meeting changed my life.

    He told me he had heard of my discipline, dedication, and scholarly commitment – and that he wanted us to collaborate in research. These were the very virtues for which he himself was known. I accepted the offer without hesitation. When I informed my revered mentor, Ambassador Prof. Okon Edet Uya, he welcomed the idea but expressed a fatherly concern: that Sandy Onor might eventually draw me into politics. His fear was that those meant to preserve academic excellence often depart, while those who should leave remain.

    What followed was not a loss to scholarship, but an expansion of purpose. Our collaboration enriched my intellectual life and strengthened my professional journey in ways too numerous to recount. It made resources available for me to conduct research and publish in ways that would have been difficult otherwise.

    Then came 2019. Against formidable odds, Sandy Onor was elected Senator. In a move that reflected rare courage and clarity, he appointed me his Senior Legislative Aide – the highest position among his aides – despite our being from different senatorial districts. In a political climate where geography and ethnicity often dictate opportunity, he chose conviction over convenience. That decision alone speaks volumes about his character. By God’s grace, we left meaningful footprints in the Senate.

    To me, my encounter with Senator Professor Sandy Onor is divine benevolence. God brought him into my life as a pillar – one man doing for me what many may not receive from a multitude in a lifetime. His generosity is instinctive, not calculated. He sees nothing as too great to do where friendship, loyalty and merit are concerned. He has opened to me the vastness of his heart and resources, ensuring that I never lack the means to pursue any noble cause. He embraces my family as his own, relating with my wife and children with warmth and dignity.

    Yet beyond personal benevolence stands something even more compelling: his seamless fusion of scholarship and statesmanship. He is proof that intellect need not be abandoned in public office, and that politics, when guided by ideas, can be noble. He bridges the academy and politics, thought and action, reflection and reform.

    At 60, Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor is not merely older – he is deeper, stronger, and more luminous. Sixty years of learning. Sixty years of service. Sixty years of lifting others. Sixty years of courage.

    Today in Abuja, we do not merely mark time; we celebrate impact. We raise our glasses in sixty resounding cheers – to a scholar of distinction, a statesman of conviction, a mentor of rare generosity, and a friend of steadfast loyalty.

    May the God who ordered our paths to cross grant him many more fruitful decades. May his wisdom expand, his strength be renewed, and his influence multiply. May the years ahead surpass the years behind in grace and accomplishment.

    Happy 60th Birthday, Distinguished Senator Professor Sandy Ojang Onor.

    The name that once reigned supreme in absence now shines even brighter in presence – and in the grateful hearts of those whose lives he has transformed.

     

  • Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

    Odey Applauds Councillors’ Support, Calls for Continued Collaboration with Council Chairmen

     

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, PhD, has commended local government legislators (councillors) for their steadfast support of the Senator Prince Bassey Otu-led administration.

    Dr. Odey gave the commendation on Tuesday while receiving in audience leaders of the Local Government Legislative Assemblies at the Deputy Governor’s Conference Room, Government House, Calabar.

    Rt. Hon. Odey called on them to continue supporting and praying for the Governor, while encouraging strong collaboration with their respective council chairmen to ensure effective governance at the local government and ward level.

    He reassured the leaders of the state government’s continued collaboration with local government councils to guarantee efficient service delivery and the successful implementation of the administration’s people first agenda.

    He also advised political office holders to remain humble and mindful of the transient nature of power. “When you are at the top, do not become carried away, because the table can turn,” he cautioned, stressing the importance of humility, respect for others, and responsible leadership across all levels.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Councillor representing Utugwang North and Leader of the Forum, Hon. Eneji Sam Ashibi, expressed appreciation to the Deputy Governor for the audience granted to them.

    Eneji, who also serves as Leader of the Obudu Legislative Assembly, reaffirmed the unwavering loyalty of the legislative leaders to the present administration and pledged their continued support in advancing the policies and programmes of the state government at the grassroots level. He noted that the forum remains committed to promoting unity, stability, and effective legislative oversight within their respective councils.

    In their separate remarks, the leaders of the Biase, Etung, and Ogoja Legislative Assemblies, Hon. Egwu Egeh Umet, Hon. ThankGod Ekupnse Ojong, and Hon. Dr. Elizabeth Mbim, respectively commended Governor Bassey Otu for embarking on grassroots-driven projects across the state. They also applauded the Deputy Governor for his leadership and supervisory role over local government affairs.

    The legislators, however, appealed for improved welfare packages for councillors, including the provision of mobility to enhance their effectiveness. They noted that the lack of adequate resources has limited their ability to execute constituency projects and called for greater support to strengthen legislative functions at the grassroots level.

    A highlight of the visit was the observance of a minute’s silence in honour of their departed colleagues and the presentation of a commemorative portrait to the Deputy Governor.

    Deputy Governor’s Press Unit, Government House, Calabar

  • Cross River State Governor Launches 2025 WASH Policy, Calls For Collective Action To Deliver Safe Water And Sanitation For All

    Cross River State Governor Launches 2025 WASH Policy, Calls For Collective Action To Deliver Safe Water And Sanitation For All

     

    By TheInvestigator

    His Excellency, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, Governor of Cross River State, officially launched the State Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) Policy 2025 at a well-attended ceremony held at Channel View Hotel, Calabar.

    The event brought together government officials, legislators, development partners, civil society organisations, private sector representatives, and community leaders to mark a major milestone in the state’s drive toward universal access to safe water, dignified sanitation, and improved hygiene.

    In his keynote address, Governor Otu described the launch as more than a ceremonial unveiling of a document. “Today is not just a ceremonial unveiling of a policy document; it is a celebration of shared vision, collective effort, and renewed commitment to improving the quality of life and health outcomes of our people,” he declared.

    The governor highlighted the inclusive and transformative process behind the policy, noting that over the past year, stakeholders. “From the visioning workshop held in August 2024 to the final stakeholder validation in August 2025, the entire process reflected our collective determination to build a policy that responds to present realities while preparing for future challenges,” he said.
    Governor Otu expressed profound gratitude to key contributors, particularly the State Executive Council, for providing the political will under the “People First” administration to prioritise WASH as an essential driver of human development.

    Represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Barrister Bassey Mensah, commended Self Help Africa (SHA) for its technical and financial support through the WASH Systems for Health Programme, which ensured the policy aligned with global best practices while remaining locally relevant.
    Emphasising that the policy’s true value lies in its implementation and impact, the governor stated: “This document represents a collective promise to our communities, to ensure safer water, dignified sanitation, improved hygiene practices and healthier lives.”

    He urged all stakeholders to sustain the spirit of collaboration: “I enjoin all stakeholders in this sector to sustain this spirit of collaboration as we work together to translate the policy into practice to achieve long-term and sustainable benefits for every citizen of Cross River State.”

    Concluding on an optimistic note, Governor Otu thanked everyone for their shared commitment and congratulated all present: “Thank you for your shared commitment, as I congratulate everyone of us for this great milestone.”
    The country director, Self Help Africa (SHA), Dr Joy Adelere, commended the state government for launching the WASH policy, reiterating that it is a significant step.

    “This policy is an inclusive and forward-looking framework that aligns with national and international standards,” she said. Aderele added that, “Good WASH governance involves making the right decisions and implementing them effectively by leveraging partnerships for sustainable change within the sector.”

    The 2025 WASH Policy establishes clear institutional reforms, including an independent WASH Regulatory Commission, commercialisation of the Cross River State Water Board Limited (CRSWBL), creation of a Small Towns Water and Sanitation Agency (STOWA), and strengthened rural systems under RUWATSSA. It sets minimum service standards (30-20 litres per capita per day depending on settlement type), mandates safety plans for water and sanitation, promotes inclusive financing through the “3Ts + R” model, and emphasises innovation, gender equity, disability inclusion, and real-time monitoring via a public WASH dashboard.

    The launch concluded with a symbolic handover of the policy document to selected stakeholders, signalling the start of decentralised implementation.
    Cross River is positioning itself as a frontrunner in Nigeria’s efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 by 2030, ensuring safe, managed water and sanitation for all, leaving no one behind.

  • Practical Religion: God Is Interested In Practical  Works Of Mercy And Love And That Was The Light He Wanted To See Shining On His People BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Practical Religion: God Is Interested In Practical  Works Of Mercy And Love And That Was The Light He Wanted To See Shining On His People BY PETER OBELE ABUE

    Christianity or the whole idea of RELIGION is being challenged today by a demand for practical results bordering on satisfaction of basic human needs. Those who emphasize this practical religion insist that Christ did not just come to teach us how to pray and worship, he also came to teach us how to take care of the poor and needy. Although this mentality smacks of secularism and denial of the sacred, at the same token, it is not something we should ignore outrightly especially in our clime, where majority of the people are in need of basic necessities.

    Jesus himself reminded us that we are “salt of the earth and light of the works” ( Matt 5:12-16). That It is to the extent we are able to show practical religion, that determines how we become salt and light. The people of Israel thought they were a Light in the world, because of their grand solemn ceremonies in the temple; they were wrong. God is interested in practical  works of mercy and love and that was the light he wanted to see shining on his people.

    The Prophet Isaiah commands the people thus: share your bread with the hungry, bring the homeless poor into your house, cloth the naked, be your own brother or sisters keeper, stop pointing the accusing finger, speaking wickedness and increasing the yoke of pain and suffering for others (Isaiah 58: 7-10). These are the things that fail to make our light shine and our prayers heard (verse 9). Christianity is not just about going to church or attending grand religious ceremonies, but also about coming to the aid of those who truly need us. Unfortunately, many deceive themselves that they are religious, when all they do is fuel trouble in their families, congregations or communities; knocking heads together, causing anxiety among peoples, and heightening the problems of poor people by their half-educated principles.

    If your worship of God or church attendance is not followed up with concrete acts of charity, or worse still, by wicked acts, you are a church goer who also doubles as a trouble shooter. As someone once said, No religion in the world is greater than kindness. No scripture is deeper than compassion. No ritual is holier than love.  Your beliefs may guide you, your traditions may shape you, but what truly defines you is how you treat others. Don’t just preach your religion – live its essence.  Don’t just quote verses – embody their meaning. Don’t just identify with a label – let your humanity speak louder than words. St Paul warns us that our faith should not rest on “human wisdom, but on the power of God” (1 Cor 2: 1-5). Human wisdom is when we are always rationalising, condemning and judging others at the slightest provocation; when we confuse people with our education, oratory and privileged positions. It is better to use the power of God in life because human wisdom can disappoint us.

    Disclaimer: The opinion expressed in this article is strictly that of the author, Peter Obele Abue, and does not represent Theluminenews, its agent or the organisation the author works for/With