Bishop Hammawa Calls for Sincere Governance, Renews Hope for Nigerians in the New Year
By Hilary John
The Catholic Bishop of Jalingo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Charles Michael Hammawa, has called on Nigerians to begin the new year with gratitude to God and a renewed commitment to building a better nation.
Bishop Charles Hammawa
Speaking at a New Year thanksgiving celebration in Jalingo, Bishop Hammawa said gratitude must be matched with responsibility, urging leaders and citizens alike to work for peace, joy, and national progress.
While acknowledging government efforts to address insecurity, he stressed that much more needs to be done, considering Nigeria’s vast human and natural resources.
According to the bishop, leadership must be guided by sincerity, honesty, purpose, and genuine concern for the welfare of ordinary Nigerians, particularly those entrusted with the protection of lives and property.
On the proposed tax reforms, Bishop Hammawa noted that taxation is a global practice but emphasized that government must act with sincerity and ensure that taxes are used for the benefit of citizens rather than the interests of those in power.
Also speaking, Rev. Fr. Col. Abraham J. Sambo, a military chaplain and colonel in the Nigerian Army, urged Nigerians to embrace the new year with optimism and hope.
Rev. Fr. Col. Abraham J. Sambo
He described the past year as challenging for many citizens but expressed confidence that the new year presents an opportunity for renewal and growth.
He encouraged Nigerians not to abandon their goals, relationships, or faith, noting that every new beginning offers a chance to start afresh.
On insecurity, Fr. Sambo said the government is making efforts to curb crime and violence across the country.
He welcomed support from foreign allies, stating that no nation is too big to accept assistance if it would lead to lasting peace.
He urged citizens to remain hopeful and to trust the efforts of the government and security agencies.
The Parish Priest of St. Augustine Dorowa and Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Jalingo Local Government Area Chapter, Rev. Fr. Innocent Daloba, said the event was both a New Year thanksgiving and a family celebration marking the 80th birthday of a parishioner, Mr Columba C.Tari.
Rev. Fr. Innocent Daloba
He noted that many Nigerians doubted they would live to see the new year due to hardship and suffering, stressing that hope remains the nation’s greatest sustaining force.
Fr. Daloba called for shared responsibility between citizens and government, saying national progress can only be achieved through collective effort.
He appealed to those involved in criminal activities to resolve to change in the new year and urged well-meaning Nigerians to commit themselves to building a better country.
In a goodwill message, the District Head of Howai in Kona Chiefdom, Chief Michael Vakai, congratulated the celebrant and wished him good health and long life.
He advised young people to remain obedient to their parents, warning against moral decline, and urged them to be patient and trust in God.
Speaking to journalists, the celebrant, Mr. Columba C. Tari, thanked God for attaining the age of 80, attributing his longevity to divine grace.
He said life is filled with challenges and advised Nigerians to exercise patience and be careful in planning rather than engage in reckless pursuits.
He also called on governments at all levels to prioritize the welfare of citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the family, the first son, Mr. Samuel Tari, described the occasion as a double celebration.
Mr Samuel Tari
He praised his father as a role model, philanthropist, and committed community member, noting his disciplined lifestyle and active involvement in church and community service even at 80.
He highlighted his father’s membership in church organizations such as the Knights of St. John International and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, known for their charitable service to the needy.
Mr. Tari advised older persons to monitor their health closely and adopt disciplined lifestyles, stressing that contentment and proper care are essential for long life.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to love one another and uphold positive values.
