By Emmanuel Oloniruha
Prof. Femi Olowookere, President, Nigerian Council for Theological Studies and Christian Education, has urged Christian couples and church leaders to protect their families against destructive habits that silently undermine homes.
Olowookere made the call on Saturday in Suleja during the launch of a book titled “Termites in the Christian Home”, authored by Dr Matthew Ajayi, District Superintendent of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Bankin-Iku District Headquarters, Suleja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event also featured the celebration of Ajayi’s 55th birthday and his 28th anniversary in pastoral ministry.
Reviewing the 12-chapter publication, Olowookere described the book as a timely resource for addressing recurring crises and rising cases of marital breakdown in contemporary society.
He said the author used the concept of termites to illustrate destructive attitudes and spiritual lapses, including anger, unforgiveness, poor communication and financial mismanagement, which gradually weaken families.
“No family is perfect, but through prayer and deliberate effort, these challenges can be overcome.
“The book shows how poor communication and unforgiveness can destroy homes built over many years,” he said.
Olowookere expressed concern over increasing marital failures, attributing them to poor understanding, financial challenges and inadequate conflict resolution.
He said although the book was based on biblical teachings, particularly from the Songs of Solomon, its lessons were relevant to people across different backgrounds.
The professor also decried the declining reading culture, urging families to cultivate the habit of reading books that promote healthy relationships.
He commended Ajayi for drawing from decades of life and ministerial experience to produce a practical guide for pastors, marriage counsellors and families.
Speaking at the event, the Zonal Superintendent of CAC Oke Iyanu, Ado District, Nasarawa State, Pastor Nathaniel Omoyele, described Ajayi as a principled and transparent church leader committed to biblical values.
Omoyele, who is also the Registrar of Ark Theological College of Nigeria, said Ajayi demonstrated uncommon leadership by providing useful guidance during a pastoral transition to ensure continuity and success.
He also commended Ajayi’s wife for her support throughout his ministerial journey.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ajayi’s daughter, Miss Bolu Ajayi, thanked her father for his sacrifices, guidance and commitment to raising his children in the fear of God.
She also appreciated her mother for her steadfast support and partnership in the family.
Other speakers, including Prophet Oyewole Bolarinwa, Mrs Janet Olowookere and Lady Evangelist Felicia Olorunfemi, described the book as a timely contribution to strengthening Christian homes.
They expressed confidence that its message would help restore peace and stability in families.
In his remarks, the author said he wrote the book in response to the avoidable challenges confronting many Christian marriages.
Ajayi said the publication examined subtle spiritual and moral weaknesses capable of destroying families if left unchecked.
“These include poor communication, lack of consistent prayer, unforgiveness, unresolved conflicts, disobedience to God’s word, spiritual negligence and moral compromise.
“The book provides biblical guidance and practical steps to help families build peaceful and God-centred homes,” he said.
Ajayi said the publication emphasised mutual respect and adherence to biblical principles as the foundation of a healthy family.
He recommended the book to individuals, married couples, parents, ministers, counsellors and church leaders committed to preserving the family institution. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
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Edited by Emmanuel Afonne