In a continued effort to deepen ecumenical harmony and strengthen bonds across Christian denominations in the country, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), His Eminence Archbishop (Dr.) Daniel C. Okoh, hosted the President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC), Rev. Dr. David Olusola Idowu, on a courtesy visit at the CAN National Secretariat in Abuja on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
The high-level meeting provided an opportunity for the leadership of both Christian bodies to discuss mutual interests, ecumenical collaboration, and spiritual unity within the Body of Christ.
Speaking on the purpose of the visit, Rev. Dr. Idowu noted that the courtesy call was designed to formally introduce the new leadership of the Nigerian Baptist Convention to the national leadership of CAN, reaffirm the NBC’s unalloyed commitment to the umbrella body, and explore strategic avenues to collaboratively address national challenges, promote peace, and advance the cause of the Gospel across Nigeria.
He also congratulated CAN’s leadership on the occasion of the forthcoming 50th Anniversary celebration.
Welcoming Rev. Dr. Idowu and his entourage, the CAN President reflected warmly on his long-standing relationship with the Nigerian Baptist Convention’s leadership, specifically recalling his fond partnership with the immediate past President of the NBC, Rev. Dr. Israel Adelani Akanji.
“Your predecessor, Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, has been a very close friend. We have worked together for over 20 years at the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), the World Council of Churches (WCC), and many other ecumenical engagements…”
Archbishop Okoh expressed heartfelt appreciation to Rev. Dr. Idowu for prioritizing the visit alongside his delegation, highlighting that such a gesture serves as a clear demonstration of his love and devotion to the association.
Stressing the importance of visible unity among Christian leaders in Nigeria, the CAN President underscored his core vision for ecumenical togetherness.
“What is important is that ‘we must be seen together,’ which has been my mantra for long,” he concluded.
Receiving the delegation were the CAN General Secretary, Apostle Prof. Samson Fatokun, the Assistant General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Uzoaku Williams, and the SSA to the CAN President, Dr. Victor Ivoke.
The courtesy visit ended with shared prayers for the peace, progress, and spiritual advancement of the church and the nation at large.
Leave a Reply