Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has urged Christians to embrace greater unity, sacrifice and tolerance, saying a united Church would be better positioned to fulfil its role in society.

Diri made the call on Tuesday at the inauguration of the new State Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Bayelsa Chapter, in Yenagoa.

Represented by his deputy, Peter Akpe, the governor expressed concern over what he described as bickering, greed and personal aggrandisement within the Church.

He said denominational differences should not prevent Christians from working together, stressing that unity required sacrifice, love and acceptance.

Diri also urged Christian leaders to remain non-partisan and speak truth to political leaders without fear, saying the Church must continue to serve as a moral voice in society.

He congratulated the outgoing CAN executive led by Rev. Father Joseph Opelema and expressed confidence that the new leadership would strengthen unity among Christian denominations in the state.

The new CAN chairman in Bayelsa, Rev. Abili Samuel Abili, pledged to lead the association with humility and responsibility.

The CAN South-South Vice Chairman, Rev. Father Victor Ofili, commended the Bayelsa chapter for maintaining unity and urged the state government to sustain its support for the association.