By Anita Uzoagba
Gershinen Dajur, Bishop, Keffi-Karshi Missionary Diocese of the Anglican Communion, has called on fathers and Christian men to remain steadfast and hopeful in spite of economic, security and moral challenges confronting Nigeria.
Dajur made the call during the 2026 Father’s Day celebration in St. Paul’s Cathedral, Nyanya themed, “From Trouble to Triumph” on Sunday in Abuja.
According to him, the theme offers God’s word of hope and assurance to believers facing difficult circumstances.
He noted that many Nigerian families were struggling with economic hardship, rising living costs, unemployment and financial uncertainty, particularly fathers and breadwinners who bear significant responsibilities.
The bishop urged Christians to place their trust in God rather than earthly systems, describing God’s power, wisdom and sovereign care as unfailing.
“Just as God spoke hope to Jeremiah in a season of confinement and distress, so He continues to assure us that our present troubles do not determine our future.”
He highlighted the moral and spiritual pressures confronting modern society, saying many homes were under strain due to the influence of secularism, materialism and moral confusion.
“As men called by God, we must remain steadfast in faith, integrity and godly leadership,” he said.
He called on Christians to continue praying for Nigeria, strengthening their families and supporting one another in Christian fellowship.
In his sermon, the guest preacher, Ven. Emeka Anyaora, said that Christians should seek God in times of trouble, stressing that God never abandons His people regardless of the difficulties they face.
According to him, the theme, “From Trouble to Triumph” is timely, given the nation’s current economic situation.
Anyaora said that people should hold firmly to God, noting that the challenges facing Nigeria today were similar to those experienced by Judah as recorded in Jeremiah 33:1-11.
He noted that, in the biblical account, God’s healing and restoration came after a period of suffering and loss.
“Never be angry with God, because He remains the only source of help we have.
“No matter how big the problem is, it cannot match the greatness of our God,” he said.
The cleric urged the congregation to remain steadfast in trusting God’s promises.
Also speaking, Mr Emmanuel Dijeh, President of the Christian Men’s Fellowship, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Nyanya, said fathers, as pillars of their homes, must remain committed to God through prayer and fasting regardless of the circumstances they face.
He extended the message beyond fathers to all men in society, urging them not to lose hope in spite of the nation’s economic challenges.
“What I have for men is that, no matter how the trouble or the problem is in our nation, Nigeria, we all know there is an economic meltdown, but as Christians, we are assured that God will surely see us through,” he said.
Dijeh urged Christians to remain prayerful, steadfast in faith and confident in God’s ability to turn every challenge into triumph.
Mr Uche Ago, Chairman of the 2026 Father’s Day Planning Committee, said fathers should remain committed to promoting family values and sustaining hope in spite of the social and economic challenges facing the country.
According to him, one of the major lessons of the programme is the understanding that no situation, particularly adverse circumstances, lasts forever.
“We have learned that nothing in this world is completely permanent, especially difficult situations,” he said.
Ago noted that fathers had been encouraged throughout the week-long activities to examine developments in the country and contribute positively to society.
He added that this year’s celebration was made more significant by its connection to other diocesan activities, including fundraising efforts for missionary work.
He urged fathers to continue playing active roles in building strong families and contributing to national development through responsible leadership and positive values.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Lydia Beshel