First Lady’s Gift of Seven CNG Buses to YOWICAN Driven by Faith, Not Politics — Enwere

The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has refuted claims that the donation of seven hybrid Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 18-seater buses by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was politically motivated or connected to the 2027 general elections.

YOWICAN National Chairman, Ambassador Belusochukwu Michael Enwere, made the clarification at the weekend during the group’s National Convention and official presentation of the vehicles held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

The event, which drew Christian leaders and youth representatives from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, also featured goodwill messages from the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh — represented by the General Secretary, Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun — and the National Chaplain of the National Ecumenical Centre, Rev. Ini Ukpuho.

Enwere stated that the First Lady’s gesture was an act of faith and service aimed at strengthening evangelism, youth empowerment, and community development across the country.

“It is very important to note that these buses were not donated with any political intent or in connection with elections. That was never the donor’s intention. Her Excellency made it clear that the purpose is to spread the gospel and make our work easier in our various zones, states, and communities, and that is exactly what we are doing,” he said.

According to him, the seven CNG buses — one designated for the national secretariat and six for the zonal offices — will enhance mobility, logistics, and mission work among Christian youths nationwide. He explained that the vehicles, being hybrid and cost-effective, align with the federal government’s energy transition policy.

“These buses are in good hands within the zonal structures. Each zone will ensure proper use and maintenance. The CNG buses are very affordable to operate; with less than N4,000, you can fill up and drive for as long as seven hours,” Enwere noted.

While commending Senator Tinubu for her generosity and foresight, the YOWICAN leader also drew attention to the persistent killings and persecution of Christians in some parts of Northern Nigeria. He called on the government at all levels to intensify efforts to secure lives and ensure justice for victims.

“The continued killings of Christians, particularly in Northern Nigeria, is a sombre reality that demands our collective attention and action. We call on the government to act decisively to protect lives and guarantee freedom of worship,” he urged.

Enwere also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for championing the use of CNG in Nigeria’s energy transition plan, noting that the initiative has made transportation more sustainable and affordable for many organizations.

Delivering his keynote address titled “Shine Bright: Reflecting God’s Glory,” Enwere charged Christian youths to become moral beacons and agents of positive change in a society struggling with ethical decay.

“Our theme reminds us that shining bright is not merely an aspiration but a divine mandate. In a world shrouded in darkness, we are called to be vessels of light that illuminate paths and draw souls to God’s glory,” he said.

Representing CAN President, Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun urged Christian youths to embrace holiness and hard work as essential virtues. “Without holiness, we cannot go anywhere. Holiness without hard work is daunting, and hard work without holiness is laziness. Grace must not be abused,” he admonished.

Also speaking, Rev. Ini Ukpuho, National Chaplain of the National Ecumenical Centre, encouraged the youths to live as examples of faith and integrity, citing Jeremiah 1:6 and 1 Timothy 4:12.

The convention concluded with prayers of thanksgiving and the formal handover of the seven hybrid buses to YOWICAN’s national and zonal chapters, marking a renewed commitment to service, evangelism, and national transformation.