Nigeria’s Renewal Must Begin with Moral Rebirth, Says Gowon at Bible Society’s 60th Anniversary

Former Head of State, General Dr. Yakubu Gowon, has declared that Nigeria’s journey toward national renewal must begin with moral rebirth anchored on the transformative power of the Holy Scriptures.
Gowon made the assertion while delivering a goodwill message at the grand finale of the 60th Anniversary Celebration of the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN), held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos.
The high-profile Founder’s Day Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony attracted prominent figures from Nigeria’s political, religious and business spheres. Among the dignitaries present was former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, who was represented by retired Lieutenant-Colonel Paul Edo Obi.
Speaking in his capacity as Patron of the Society, Gowon described the work of the Bible Society of Nigeria as integral to nation-building, stressing that lasting national transformation cannot occur without moral renewal.
“The Bible Society of Nigeria has consistently reminded us that national renewal begins with moral renewal, and moral renewal begins with hearts transformed by the Word of God,” he said.
The former Head of State commended the Society’s six-decade journey since its establishment in 1966, noting its evolution into what he described as a national and global force for spiritual transformation.
He highlighted BSN’s achievements in translating the Bible into indigenous Nigerian languages, distributing scriptures in both print and digital formats, and extending outreach to prisons, security agencies and internally displaced communities across the country.
“In a world increasingly challenged by moral decline, conflict, misinformation and the erosion of values, the relevance of the Scriptures has never been greater,” Gowon noted. “The Bible remains a light in darkness, hope in despair and truth in times of confusion.”
Looking ahead, Gowon called for sustained national and international support for the next phase of the Society’s mission, including plans for a sustainable infrastructure drive featuring the proposed Bible House project.
“I therefore call on individuals, churches, corporate organisations and friends of the Bible Society of Nigeria, both within and outside the country, to continue to stand with this noble mission,” he urged. “When we support the Bible Society, we are investing not just in an institution, but in the spiritual and moral foundation of our nation.”
The anniversary celebration also featured a keynote lecture delivered by the Senior Pastor of The Covenant Nation, Pastor Poju Oyemade, alongside the presentation of awards to individuals and institutions recognised for their outstanding service to God and humanity.