Methodist Prelate tells Tinubu, tackle insecurity, the root cause of Nigeria’s socio-economic woes
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Methodist Church Nigeria Prelate Oliver Aba has told Bola Tinubu to sit up in the presidential office and with “honesty and seriousness” tackle insecurity that fuels inflation, hunger, and unrelenting economic hardship across Nigeria.
Aba spoke up at the 43rd Council of Bishops of the Methodist Church Nigeria, held at the Methodist Cathedral of Unity, Wuse, Abuja, stressing that insecurity is the root cause of Nigeria’s socio-economic woes.
“All Nigerians will agree that we face three major challenges: hunger, inflation, and insecurity,” he said.
“I believe insecurity is the root cause of the other two, and by addressing it, we can pave the way for normalcy and progress.
“As a church, we urge those in positions of authority to confront these anomalies with the honesty and seriousness they demand.
“Governments at all levels must take decisive action to tackle these issues, for no nation can prosper under the weight of such challenges.”
In his message to the gathering, Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of the Methodist Church to national development and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with faith-based institutions.
The message, delivered by Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, praised the church’s legacy in education, healthcare, and social advocacy.
He cited Nigeria’s founding fathers, including Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Louis Ojukwu, who were products of Methodist educational institutions.
“The partnership between church and state is essential for the well-being of our citizens, and we remain committed to strengthening this collaboration for the greater good.
“The theme of this year’s Council, ‘He Will Rise Again,’ aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda for Nigeria. After years of grappling with unsustainable subsidies, Nigeria is, indeed, rising again,” Akume said.
Tinubu noted the role of the Methodist Church in establishing schools, hospitals, orphanages, and mental health facilities in Nigeria, applauding its advocacy for good governance and civic responsibility.
“The history of our nation’s development cannot be told without acknowledging the pivotal role played by the Methodist Church Nigeria.”
Christian Association of Nigerian (CAN) President Daniel Okoh, commended the Methodist Church for its enduring commitment to Christian unity, social justice, and nation-building.
He urged continued ecumenical collaboration to address national challenges and uphold Christian values.
“In an era marked by uncertainty, insecurity, and socio-political turbulence, your consistent efforts in building bridges across denominational divides, fostering harmony among believers, and providing hope to the weary are acts of great courage and profound obedience to the call of Christ,” Okoh said.
He praised the church’s impact in education, healthcare, and moral leadership, and encouraged the Bishops to continue serving with “integrity, spiritual depth, and unwavering commitment.”
The Methodist Council of Bishops is an annual gathering dedicated to spiritual renewal, ministerial leadership, and reinforcing the apostolic mission of the church.
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