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By Tracy Moses
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has appealed to Christian leaders across Nigeria to deepen collaboration with political authorities through prayers, guidance, and active engagement, noting that national transformation requires the combined strength of faith and leadership.
Kalu made the call on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving the Lord Bishop of the Diocese of Isiala Ngwa (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev’d Temple O. Nwaogu, and his entourage during a courtesy visit to his office.
Describing the meeting as “spiritually uplifting and symbolic,” the Deputy Speaker said it reaffirmed the timeless connection between spiritual and civic leadership. He expressed appreciation to the Bishop and his team, whom he described as “messengers of encouragement and prayer” from his home state of Abia.
“Your presence here is not just an honour to me personally, but to this government,” Kalu stated. “When you pray for me, you intercede for our leadership. When you support me, you strengthen the vision we collectively serve.”
He urged the Igbo people to abandon the outdated belief of ‘Igbo Enwe Eze’, meaning “the Igbo have no king”, which, according to him, has long hindered regional unity and progress.
Citing the biblical story of Moses, Kalu emphasized that leadership flourishes with the support of the people.
“We must change that perception. Once a leader emerges, we should rally behind them,” he said. “When Moses’ hands were raised, Israel triumphed. When they dropped, they struggled. The same principle applies to leadership support.”
The Deputy Speaker highlighted the essential role of the church in driving moral renewal, peacebuilding, and social stability, encouraging the clergy to keep guiding the nation while promoting faith, hope, and patriotism.
“The church remains the conscience of the nation,” he stressed. “At a time of economic and social trials, the pulpit must keep hope alive. Nations survive on faith in a better tomorrow.”
Kalu also called for closer synergy between religious institutions and government in delivering grassroots empowerment and community welfare programmes in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Faith must be active,” he said. “Law without vigilance is weak, and policy without conscience is empty. Through collaboration, we can identify widows, widowers, and small-scale entrepreneurs who need support. Every community of faith can help reach those in need.”
Speaking on the South-East, the Deputy Speaker described the region as “pregnant with possibilities,” adding that its resilience would soon produce greatness.
“There’s something remarkable about to emerge from the South-East that will bless Nigeria and Africa,” he said. “The region is being refined for greatness.”
Kalu reaffirmed his loyalty to President Tinubu, commending his inclusive leadership and genuine concern for the South-East. He urged the region’s people to reciprocate by supporting the current administration.
“This is the moment for the South-East to rally behind the President,” he declared. “When it becomes our turn, others will stand with us. The Nigerian project is divine; we are all instruments in God’s plan for this country.”
He ended the meeting with a prayer, saying, “May God bless Abia State, the church, and Nigeria. May He grant the House of Representatives the wisdom to build a nation worthy of the next generation.”
In his remarks, Bishop Nwaogu described Kalu’s emergence as Deputy Speaker as a “divine elevation,” praising his humility, vision, and devotion to public service.
The cleric expressed gratitude for the warm reception, noting that “God’s grace has sustained Nigeria despite its challenges.”
“It is by His mercy we remain one,” the Bishop said. “We thank Him for raising you at this crucial time and pray that He strengthens you to continue making a difference.”
He congratulated Kalu on his political success, describing leadership as a sacred duty that demands sacrifice and wisdom.
“Your success is our success,” he said. “You’re restoring hope where it once faded, and posterity will remember your contribution.”
Bishop Nwaogu likened Kalu’s service to biblical stewardship, saying: “It’s one thing to occupy an office; it’s another to make meaningful impact.”
He further encouraged continued partnership between faith and government, reminding the audience that “the President cannot do it alone.”
“As the church is episcopally led and synodically governed, so too must the nation operate in unity and shared purpose,” he added.
The visit ended with prayers for the Deputy Speaker, his family, and the National Assembly, with the Bishop asking God to grant Kalu “wisdom, integrity, and enduring grace to lead with truth and bring glory to God.”