By joshua 
Inter‑religious tolerance, unity: Kogi Water Resources Commissioner, Engr. Farouk Attends 2025 Christmas Carol Service, Festival of Praise.
… Joins Christian Faithful in Unity, Calls for Inter‑Religious Harmony.
LOKOJA — The 2025 Kogi State Government‑organized Christmas Carol Service and Festival of Praise at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre turned into a vivid demonstration of inter‑religious tolerance and unity.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Kogi State Commissioner for Water Resources, Engr. Yahaya MD Farouk, State Head of Service Dr. Elijah Evinemi, and former Environment Commissioner Hon. Victor Omofaiye.
Speaking with newsmen, Engr. Farouk highlighted the far‑reaching benefits of religious harmony, noting that it fuels development, fosters community peace, and deepens mutual understanding.
He added that such tolerance opens doors for collaboration across faiths, empowering citizens to work together and support one another.
He therefore commended Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration for cultivating an environment where inter‑religious cooperation thrives, which he said has visibly reduced conflict and discrimination.
Representing Governor Ododo, Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, affirmed the event’s status as an annual fixture that strengthens unity among believers.
She thanked Christians for their prayers and continuous support for the governor’s people‑oriented leadership, pledging sustained promotion of religious harmony for lasting peace and progress.
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) State Chairman, Senior Apostle Adebayo Olaniyan, urged congregants to pray fervently for the safe return of those kidnapped in Ejiba and for overall peace in Kogi.
He expressed CAN’s full backing for the current administration and lauded Mrs. Ayoade as a “humble goal‑getter” for bringing diverse worshippers together.
The ceremony featured powerful performances by notable gospel artistes—American screenwriter‑producer Chris Morgan, the Kogi State Mass Choir, Victoria Obaja, and Lord Bishop, whose songs resonated deeply with the thousands of worshippers in attendance.
The event underscores Kogi’s collective resolve to uphold prayer, unity, and gratitude, setting a hopeful tone for continued solidarity and development under Governor Ododo’s leadership.