Mutfwang Receives Abp Welby in Jos

Former Archbishop of Canterbury, Bishop Justin Welby, has called for sustained attention to peacebuilding, compassion and the protection of vulnerable people during a visit to Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, in Jos.

Welby made the call when he paid a courtesy visit to Mutfwang at the Old Government House, Rayfield, Jos.

The former Archbishop and the governor discussed peace, interfaith relations, humanitarian support and the welfare of communities.

Welby, who retired as Archbishop of Canterbury on January 6, 2025, expressed his continued affection for Nigeria, recalling his longstanding relationship with the country.

He said he had visited the region more than a dozen times since his first visit to Nigeria in 1978.

Reflecting on the responsibilities of public leadership, Welby drew from his experience during the coronation of King Charles III, where he anointed the King with oil.

He said the experience gave him a deeper appreciation of the enormous weight carried by those entrusted with political and public leadership.

“The impression I had then was of the weight of government, how enormously heavy it is to be in politics, to lead a state, to lead a local government authority, to lead a nation,” Welby said.

The former Archbishop, who has participated in international peace missions, encouraged continued efforts to promote peace, compassion and the protection of vulnerable people

Responding, Governor Mutfwang appreciated Welby’s enduring commitment to peace, reconciliation and humanitarian causes, stressing the important role of faith leaders in promoting unity and compassion across communities.

Mutfwang said the true value of faith was demonstrated through service to humanity, particularly by caring for and supporting people in need.

“Religion, like the Bible says, is not mere talk, it is what you do for the less privileged and what you do for common humanity that shows really the value you place on God,” Mutfwang said.

The governor also briefed Welby on his administration’s efforts to support communities affected by difficult circumstances, including a recently commenced N1.5 billion joint intervention by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and the Plateau State Government.

He said the intervention was designed to empower victims of violent attacks, support their recovery, facilitate the safe return of internally displaced persons to their communities, rebuild livelihoods and strengthen confidence among affected communities.