Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called for stronger collaboration between government and faith-based institutions as a path to achieving a just, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.

Speaking on Wednesday in Ibadan at the opening of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Mr Makinde praised the church for over a century of service in education, healthcare, community development, and moral leadership.

Drawing from the conference theme, “I Will Fight for You,” he noted that while the scripture calls believers to trust God, it also places a duty on leaders to uphold fairness, truth, peace, and equal opportunity for all citizens.

He said his administration’s focus has been on people-centred development, adding that the nation’s challenge “isn’t a lack of talent or resources, but a lack of unifying leadership.

“What Nigeria needs now more than ever is leadership that brings people together around a common purpose and the courage to place service above self,” he stated.

Mr Makinde also used the church gathering to formally restate his intention to contest for the office of president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2027.

He asked for the prayers and support of the Methodist Church, saying the type of leadership he intends to offer was one rooted in unity and service.

Recalling his personal connection to the venue, the governor said he had prayed at the same location in 2018 for God’s will regarding his governorship bid.

He said the conference afforded him a similar moment to commit his presidential aspiration to God.

In his address, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Oliver Aba, urged the federal government to do more to tackle banditry, kidnapping, inflation, and other national challenges.

Mr Aba commended the federal government, the Oyo State Government, and security agencies for the rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

He also called on Nigerians to be more prayerful for God’s mercy, justice, and prosperity.

The prelate also charged governments at all levels to be proactive on security and to stop the payment of ransom to kidnappers.

The five-day conference drew Methodist delegates from across Nigeria and beyond to deliberate on faith, service and national development. 

(NAN)