Eminent Nigerians, Church Leaders Laud Bible Society at 60, Honour Engr Ajisafe And Other Key Contributors
Eminent Nigerians, including former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd.), former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, and leading Christian figures, have commended the Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) for its enduring role in shaping the nation’s moral and spiritual landscape as it marked its 60th anniversary.
The accolades came during the Society’s 17th Founder’s Day Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony held in Lagos, an event that drew a cross-section of national leaders, clergy, academics, industry stakeholders, and development partners.
Speaking at the ceremony, Gowon described the Bible as more than a religious text, portraying it as “light in darkness, hope in despair and truth in confusion.” He stressed that in a time marked by moral decline and social challenges, the relevance of Scripture remains critical.
According to him, national renewal must begin with moral rebirth rooted in the transformative power of God’s Word. He called for stronger partnerships, innovation, and greater youth engagement to sustain the Society’s impact, while also appealing for support towards the proposed Bible House project, which he described as a legacy investment for future generations.
Former President Jonathan, represented by Lt. Colonel Paul Edor Obi (rtd.), noted that BSN has played a quiet but significant role in shaping Nigeria’s moral conscience through Bible translation and literacy initiatives. He highlighted recent translations into Ogwe and Epie languages and pledged continued support to ensure their publication.
Jonathan added that faith-based organisations like BSN have contributed meaningfully to national development by promoting values such as integrity, compassion, and justice.
In his remarks, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described BSN as one of the most consistent Christian institutions in the country, noting its long-standing partnership with CAN.
Delivering the keynote address, Senior Pastor of The Covenant Nation Global, Pastor Poju Oyemade, characterised the Bible Society as a “quiet but powerful force” in Nigeria’s moral and cultural development. Drawing on biblical imagery, he likened BSN’s work to that of “salt”—largely unseen but essential in preserving society.
Oyemade underscored the importance of translating the Bible into indigenous languages, revealing that the full Scriptures are now available in over 27 Nigerian languages, with portions translated into many more. He paid tribute to early pioneers such as Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, whose efforts laid the foundation for making the Bible accessible within local cultures.
He emphasised that Scripture becomes more impactful when expressed in the language and worldview of the people, adding that wider access to the Bible has strengthened accountability within the Church and reduced the risk of doctrinal manipulation.
The cleric also commended BSN’s inclusive initiatives, including the production of Braille Bibles and ongoing translation into Nigerian Sign Language, stressing that access to Scripture should be universal.
Earlier, BSN General Secretary and CEO, Pastor Samuel Sanusi, described the anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on six decades of impact, marked by transformed lives, strengthened communities, and renewed hope.
“Legacy is built through consistent acts of service, courageous leadership and a commitment to a better future,” he said.
The event also featured the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals for their contributions to the advancement of the Society’s mission. Among the recipients were Archbishop Daniel Okoh; Pastor Gabriel Uyeh, Chairman of LAWNA Territory; Prophet P. A. Olowoporoku, General Overseer of Love of Christ Chapel International Ministries; Engineer Paul Ajisafe, Chairman of Padua Petroleum Nigeria Limited; and Dr Dare Ajiboye, former BSN General Secretary.
Responding on behalf of awardees, Ajisafe described the recognition as a testament to God’s faithfulness and a call to greater service. He dedicated the award to individuals who have contributed to Bible translation and distribution across Nigeria and beyond.
The celebration underscored BSN’s six-decade legacy of promoting Scripture engagement and its continued commitment to expanding access to the Bible across languages, cultures, and communities.
