The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, Rev’d (Dr) Elisha Olukayode Ogundiya, has articulated a far-reaching vision by his administration aimed at strengthening unity, deepening spiritual growth, and enhancing greater impact of Christian bodies across the state.
Rev’d (Dr) Ogundiya, while outlining his agenda in an exclusive interview with Oodua News, emphasized that his leadership is anchored on unity of purpose among the various Christian denominations, blocs, and fellowships operating under the CAN umbrella. According to him, a united Church remains a powerful force for moral regeneration, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in Oyo State.
He said the Christian bodies need do away with division, and be united to move the body forward progressively, saying “we must focus on how to be united irrespective of denominations.
He stressed that his vision prioritizes peace and harmonious coexistence, among Christians community, noting that the Church has a critical role to play in promoting tolerance, dialogue, and mutual respect, especially in a diverse society like Oyo State.
He urged the various Christian bodies to focus on how to be united because our Lord Jesus is one, adding that when we achieve this , we will leave aside, our denominational differences and embrace unit among ourselves.”
Rev’d Ogundiya further revealed his plans to reposition CAN in Oyo State as a strong advocacy platform for justice, equity, and good governance, saying that the Christian body would continue to speak with a united voice on issues affecting the body.
He called for stronger collaboration between CAN and government noting that such partnerships are essential for addressing societal challenges and fostering sustainable development.
The CAN Chairman reaffirmed his commitment to transparent, inclusive, and prayer-driven leadership, assuring Christian leaders and faithful across Oyo State that his tenure would be guided by integrity, accountability, and total dependence on God.
He said where ever his leadership noted division, or rancor, it will step into it and ensure peace and unity is restored immediately.
Rev’d Ogundiya who was Inaugurated into office December 11, 2025 urged Christian bodies in the state to cooperate with government that God has placed in positive of authority in order to bring out the fruits that God is expecting, adding that Christians should also be involved in giving quality advice to people in leadership.
He said God is expecting every the leadership he established to bring forth fruits of peace, progress and development for the people, just as he encouraged Christian leaders to work together for the good of the various Christian blocs under CAN.
“The leadership of Christian bodies is being rotated across five blocks that form CAN, namely, The Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, The Christian Council of Nigeria, The PFN/CPFN, OAIC and the ECWA. The leadership need to be united and speak under one voice in order to achieve unity in diversity, he added.
Rev’d Ogundiya said his vision for Oyo CAN is to foster unity among the Christian bodies and Christian unions like Christian medical doctors, Journalists and others. “Our vision is to synergise with them to lift up the name and banner of our Lord Jesus Christ and advance His kingdom through evangelism.
“As CAN leader in the state, I made a pledge on the day of our inauguration that I will operate under divine leadership and on personal integrity that with enhance Christian integrity among followers and in an open administration.
He said his leadership will also encourage Christians and children of God participate in politics,. saying anyone who is interested should take part in governance, assuring that the body of Christ will back such person up because God’s children are the light of the world.
“We want to encourage every child of God or Christians to go and obtain their Permanent Voters Card (PVC) to vote credible candidate of their choice into office during elections so that we will have improved society.”
He urged Christians in the state to continually pray for the peace and progress of Oyo State and Nigeria at large, while remaining steadfast in faith and united in purpose, stressing that a strong, united Church would significantly contribute to building a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.
