The Diocese of Lagos Mainland of Methodist Church Nigeria on Friday began a three-day celebration of its 30th Synod with a call on President Bola Tinubu to lead Nigeria by showing good example of anti-corruption and austerity needed to navigate the economic meltdown.
In a message to the 30th Synod, the Prelate Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Aba said Nigeria’s problems were caused by poor economic policies. He, however, called on Nigerians to contribute to nation building through personal commitments, sacrifices, actions, prayers.
The Prelate said Christians needed to show interest in the church and their community, while he appealed to the federal government to come up with more innovative ways to address the hunger in the land.
In an address that focuses on the theme of the Synod, “Arise and Build” taken from Nehemiah 2:18, the Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos Mainland, the Most Reverend (Dr.) Obafemi Adeleye expressed concern over the level of corruption and insecurity in the country.
Drawing a parallel between the Biblical story of Prophet Nehemiah who rebuilt the temple and the wall of Jerusalem and the current state of Nigeria, the Most Reverend Adeleye urged political leaders to have the people’s interest at heart and lead by example.
“First and foremost, we must confront the pervasive insecurity that grips our nation. The scourge of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping has reached alarming levels, leaving innocent citizens living in fear and uncertainty,” says Bishop Adeleye.
On poverty in Nigeria, Bishop Adeleye said, “It is impossible to overstate the hardship our people have endured. The economic downturn has exacerbated poverty and unemployment, pushing many of our fellow citizens to the brink of despair. Families struggle to put food on the table, children are unable to access quality education, and the dream of a better life seems increasingly distant for millions of Nigerians.
The Most Reverend (Dr.) Adeleye commended Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his leadership, calling on him not to rest on his oars.