Archbishop Daniel Urges Northern Christians to Unite as ACT-2027 Opens Abuja Secretariat

Archbishop John Praise Daniel has urged Christians across northern Nigeria to unite across ethnic, denominational and political divides, declaring that collective action is essential to advancing their interests ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Daniel made the call during the commissioning of the Abuja secretariat of Arewa Christians for Tinubu 2027 (ACT-2027), where he also rallied support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election.

The cleric urged Northern Christians to set aside their differences and work towards common political objectives, stressing that unity would strengthen their capacity to influence political outcomes.

“When we are united, there is no impossibility that will stand against us,” he said, citing biblical teachings on unity and collective purpose.

He called on members of ACT-2027 to extend their mobilisation efforts to villages, local government areas and wards across the northern states, saying grassroots engagement was necessary to advance the group’s vision.

Daniel cautioned against allowing tribal affiliations, denominational differences and party divisions to weaken the movement.

“Despite our differences, we must be united. We must stand as one. That is what will make the vision come to pass,” he said.

The bishop expressed confidence in the group’s ability to mobilise support for Tinubu in 2027, urging members to focus on what he described as the collective interests of Northern Christians.

Recounting his engagement with Tinubu in 2022, Daniel said he had supported giving the president an opportunity to lead despite concerns surrounding the APC’s Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket at the time.

He explained that his decision was influenced partly by his belief that Tinubu could address insecurity and ensure broader representation in government appointments.

Daniel said appointments of Christians to key government positions had strengthened his confidence in the administration, citing Senator George Akume’s appointment as Secretary to the Government of the Federation and General Christopher Musa’s service in senior defence positions.

He urged Northern Christians to sustain their support for Tinubu, arguing that a second term could provide an opportunity for further engagement on issues affecting the region’s Christian population.

The cleric also emphasised the need for ACT-2027 members to take the organisation’s message to communities across northern Nigeria, insisting that political participation should transcend ethnic and denominational boundaries.

The commissioning of the Abuja secretariat forms part of ACT-2027’s preparations for the 2027 elections.

The organisation’s Convener and National Coordinator, Ambassador Ayuba Jacob Ngbako, previously announced a target of five million votes for Tinubu, with plans to establish mobilisation structures across the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory.

ACT-2027, which identifies itself as the political wing of the Arewa Christians Development Association, has also announced plans to unveil a book titled Meet President Tinubu and His 52 Managers of the Economy in December.