Former Nigerian leaders, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), Dr Goodluck Jonathan and former minister of defence, General Theophilus Danjuma, have called for religious harmony and nurturing of the young ones in the country.
They spoke at the 20th anniversary celebration of the Pastors’ Training Trust Fund.
The fund which was established in 2003, has helped in the training of over 600 pastors.
General Gowon who is the ground patron said he commissioned the office headquarters in Maiduguri and had watched with admiration, the accountability of its leadership.
“They started with five pastors and now they are sponsoring over 120 student pastors in the 2022-2023 session.
“This is a remarkable achievement. It means that we Africans and Nigerians are now sponsoring the work of mission rather than waiting for sponsorship from abroad,” Gowon said, adding that the organisation is non-denominational with 36 denomination pastors sponsored in 26 theological colleges.
“We have sponsored 600 theological students in seminaries. We are planning to sponsor 250 students annually. We were spending N100,000 per student but not covering their fees, there are more demands.
“This is to ensure that future generations of pastors have good biblical training for religious harmony and nurturing,” Gowon said.
Former president Jonathan emphasised the importance of religious harmony, adding that clergymen face series of challenges.
According to Jonathan, General Yakubu Gowon and T.Y. Danjuma used the rifle to keep Nigeria one, and even after retirement, they are using the bible to still keep the country one.
“We believe this institution will help you to be nurtured as Christian, community and political leaders,” Jonathan added.
General Danjuma, who said he had been avoiding such gatherings because of his health, added that God ordered him to personally attend the 20th anniversary.
He said; “I am here because God ordered me to be here. I didn’t know of the existence of the pastors’ training fund and the organisation sponsoring this ceremony.
“This goes beyond the denominational rivalry that normally destroys organisations like this. I congratulate you and urge you to continue to work together and train our clergymen.”
Chairlady of the day, retired Justice Olufunlola Adekeye, described General Gowon as God’s gift to the Nigerian nation and the first intercessor of the country.
She said their efforts at keeping Nigeria one through interfaith and national unity would never be forgotten.