The Niger Delta Indigenous Bishops and Ministers’ Forum (NDIBAMF) has paid a courtesy visit to the Department of State Services (DSS) to discuss rising security concerns affecting churches across the oil-rich region.
The senior clerics’ visit which came barely a week after a similar visit to the 6 Division of the Nigeria Army Headquarters, Port Harcourt followed widespread social media reports of bandits allegedly moving into the Niger Delta, with particular concerns for Rivers State.
Speaking at the meeting, Chairman of the Forum, Bishop John Ogolo, expressed sincere appreciation to the Director General DG of the DSS, for providing reliable security that has contributed significantly to peace and safety across the state.
Ogolo, the Prelate of Lovers of Christ Ministry, commended the agency’s continuous efforts in tackling various threats to the life and property of citizens, vouching that their sacrifices are not taken for granted.
Ogolo also sympathised with the DG over the casualties security operatives encounter, while protecting the nation’s citizens and critical infrastructure, reassuring the DSS, that the prayers of the Christian community rest on them, vowing that their efforts to sustain peace will continue to yield positive results.
“We sincerely regret the increasing security challenges our pastors, church workers, and worship centres face, particularly in remote and less-protected areas, hence this our visit aims at deepening collaboration with your organisation, to ensure that worship centres remain safe for religious activities.
“The Christian community therefore calls for stronger intelligence sharing, rapid response mechanisms, and proactive measures, to prevent threats before they escalate,” they requested.
Addressing newsmen on the aim of the visit, the President General of NDIBAMF, Archbishop Julius Ediwe, appreciated the warm reception from the director and his officers. He said the State, and indeed, the entire South South is peaceful, urging churches to remain calm, as the DSS is fully in control of ensuring safety and maintaining peace.
In his response, the Director General of the DSS, Adeola Olunwantosin Ajayi, assured the delegation of the agency’s commitment to supporting peaceful religious gatherings and strengthening security coordination across the region. He commended the Forum for taking the initiative to engage directly with security agencies.
The meeting is expected to pave the way for stronger cooperation between the Church and security sector, with a shared commitment to protecting lives, ensuring stability, and promoting peaceful coexistence within the Niger Delta.