Methodist Church Nigeria has called on Nigerians to remain patriotic and support government initiatives aimed at transforming the nation, stressing that national development requires collective responsibility from both leaders and citizens.
The call was made by the Prelate of Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali-Aba, during a media briefing in Yaba, Lagos, as the church marked the 50th anniversary of the Episcopacy of the Methodist Church in Nigeria.
Dr. Ali-Aba urged the government to demonstrate determination in meeting the expectations of the people, noting that effective leadership and shared commitment were critical to addressing the country’s challenges.
“Our leaders should take the bull by the horn to deliver excellent leadership and ensure the dividends of democracy reach the people,” he said.
Speaking on the issue of security, the Prelate emphasised that safeguarding the nation was a collective duty, calling for unity, vigilance and prayer.
“When it comes to security, security is in our hands. Let all hands be on deck. This is not a time of crying; it is a time to pray that God will change the hearts of our leaders. If you are a friend of a thief, you are a thief; if you are a friend of a bandit, you are a bandit,” he stated.
Reflecting on the anniversary, popularly known within the Methodist community as “The Appointed Day,” Dr. Ali-Aba highlighted the church’s long-standing contributions to national development, particularly in education, healthcare and social services at the grassroots level, in support of government efforts.
He noted that although the Methodist Church had existed in Nigeria long before becoming indigenous in 1976, the adoption of Episcopacy marked a defining moment in its history.
“As the church celebrates 50 years of Episcopacy, it looks to the future, building on a foundation of Spirit-led and Christ-centred leadership,” he said.
According to him, the golden jubilee celebrations would focus on themes of jubilee, God’s faithfulness and the diverse ways believers are called to serve with courage and commitment.
Dr. Ali-Aba further described the commemoration as a significant milestone, praising both past and present leaders for their courage and perseverance despite numerous challenges.
He added that the adoption of Episcopacy had positively transformed the Methodist Church Nigeria, enhancing its image, organisational strength and effectiveness in ministry.
Today, he said, the church has recorded remarkable growth, with thousands of local churches and a strong membership base across Nigeria and beyond, earning visibility and recognition among sister churches worldwide.
Reporting by Olusegun Haastrup