The Cross River State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to fostering religious tolerance and interfaith unity across the state.

The Acting Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this declaration on Monday while receiving the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his temporary office at the Glass House, Government House, Calabar.

He highlighted Cross River State’s long-standing reputation as a model for interfaith unity in Nigeria, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the government and both Christian and Muslim communities in maintaining peaceful coexistence.

Odey reiterated that under Governor Bassey Otu’s ‘People First’ mantra, the administration remains committed to creating an inclusive environment where all religious freedom thrives, regardless of their religious beliefs.

He commended CAN for its unwavering advocacy for social and spiritual justice, urging religious leaders to continue spreading messages of unity, love, and understanding to further strengthen interfaith relations. He assured that the Governor Otu-led administration would sustain policies that promote harmony, mutual respect, and peaceful cohabitation among residents.

The Acting Governor also acknowledged the concerns raised by Archbishop Okoh, including support for the Cross River State chapter of CAN in hosting the National Executive Council of CAN, financial assistance for CAN’s building project at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, and the constitution of the State’s Inter-Religious Council. He assured the delegation of the government’s support, revealing that the state had already constituted its Interfaith Religious Council due to ongoing collaboration with religious institutions.

In his remarks, Archbishop Daniel Okoh praised Governor Bassey Otu for his inclusive and gender-friendly governance, which transcends ethno-religious boundaries. He also commended the administration’s developmental strides, including the ongoing Bakassi Deep Seaport, Calabar-Obudu railway project, renovation of critical government infrastructure, road construction across the state, and enhanced security measures. He described these efforts as ‘refreshing’ and instrumental in improving the socioeconomic status of residents.

Speaking on the purpose of his visit, the General Superintendent of Christ Holy Church International stated that he was in Calabar for a three-day Calabar City Crusade, themed “Great Joy in the City.” He appealed to the state government for increased support for CAN’s activities, ongoing projects in Abuja, and the formal constitution of the State Inter-Religious Council.

In conclusion, Archbishop Okoh urged religious leaders and the government to continue working together to sustain an atmosphere of unity and tolerance in the state.

The leader of the delegation was accompanied on the visit by his wife, Gdcn Ngozi Okoh, Cross River State Chapter Chairman of CAN, Rev. (Dr.) Takis Etim Caiafas, Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Affairs, Apostle Frank Umo, and other religious leaders.

Also present at the meeting were the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan-Enoh, members of the State Executive Council, and the Head of Personal Staff to the Acting Governor, Dr. Chris Ojikpong, among others.

The highpoint of the visit was a special prayer session led by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, offering prayers for the Governor, his Deputy, the State Executive Council members, and the people of Cross River State.