Conservative Conference Event Highlights UK-Nigeria Unity and Human Rights Advocacy Mr. Bernard Doro’s Contribution on Community Protection and Partnership Praised by Leaders and MPs at CCF Service.
Manchester, UK – Sunday, 1 October 2023
On the opening day of the 2023 Conservative Party Conference, leaders, policymakers, and faith representatives gathered at Faithlife Church, Manchester for the annual Conservative Christian Fellowship (CCF) Worship Service, which this year coincided with Nigeria’s Independence Day.
The event brought together UK parliamentarians, Church of England leaders, international NGOs, and members of the Nigerian diaspora from across the North West to reflect on shared values of justice, community service, and freedom. The occasion served as a moment of unity between the United Kingdom and Nigeria, acknowledging the role both nations can play in advancing dignity, opportunity, and peace.
Among the senior figures attending were Mrs Fiona Bruce MP, the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion and Belief, and her deputy David Burrowes, co-founder of the Conservative Christian Fellowship and former Member of Parliament. A Church of England bishop delivered a keynote reflection on the importance of international engagement and the responsibilities of nations to uphold human rights in an increasingly complex global landscape.
The event also featured recorded messages from both the then Prime Minister, Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, and the Foreign Secretary, who extended their appreciation to communities across the UK and overseas that continue to promote compassion, service, and dialogue across borders.
A highlight of the evening was a powerful and widely praised contribution from Mr Bernard Doro, a Manchester-based clinician and humanitarian advocate. Speaking with deep conviction, Mr Doro outlined practical steps through which the UK and Nigeria could strengthen cooperation to protect vulnerable communities and support sustainable local development.
Drawing on his professional and civic experience, Mr Doro spoke about the need for an evidence-based approach to community protection, the role of education and youth empowerment in peace building, and the value of partnerships between governments, NGOs, and faith institutions. His remarks were met with strong affirmation from the diverse audience of MPs, diplomats, and community leaders in attendance.
Organisations represented at the gathering included Open Doors UK, Christian Solidarity Worldwide, and several civic and advocacy networks committed to promoting justice and human rights globally.