Isaac Olawuyi, the Archbishop of Lagos, Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN) has called on the government to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture for a stronger national response to curb the growing wave of insecurity.
He also urged Nigerians to remain confident in God as the country navigates difficult times, assuring that divine help is sufficient to lead the nation through its socioeconomic challenges.
‘We must recognize that God is at the front of the battle. If we think we can do everything without Him, we will continue to struggle,’ Olawuyi stated, during the recent 64th Synod of MCN, Diocese of Lagos, held at Wesley Cathedral with the theme ‘I Will Fight for You.’
He expressed concern over the worsening security and economic conditions in the country, describing the situation as one that demands urgent and sustained action.
He noted that millions of Nigerians continue to suffer the effects of banditry, kidnapping and terrorism, with over two million people displaced and farming activities severely disrupted.
According to him, the rising food inflation has further deepened hunger and economic hardship for families across the country.
‘As the Church of God, we are not immune to these challenges. Many of our congregants are suffering, and some have even lost their lives to senseless violence.’
The Archbishop also raised concern over targeted attacks on Christian communities, including the destruction of churches and loss of lives over the years.
He described such killings and abductions as ‘heinous acts’ that require urgent collective action, stressing that the shedding of innocent blood is contrary to God’s will.
While acknowledging government efforts in addressing insecurity, he called for more decisive steps to end insurgency and restore lasting peace. He urged authorities to ensure that perpetrators of violence are brought to justice and that citizens can safely enjoy the benefits of democracy.
On civic engagement, Olawuyi encouraged Christians to take active part in politics, describing it as a way of positively shaping society and advocating for the vulnerable.
‘Let us be the salt and light in our communities. Our voices matter, even in small ways,’ he stated.
He highlighted the potential of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) scheme in boosting agricultural production if properly structured.
He proposed deploying corps members to rural areas with adequate training, funding and mentorship to enhance food security and reduce unemployment.
However, he expressed concern about the safety of corps members in volatile regions and called for the decentralisation of the NYSC programme to reduce security risks.
‘It is becoming increasingly dangerous to send young graduates to certain parts of the country without adequate security.’
Emmanuel Nboho, guest speaker, urged the Church to prioritise youth engagement, evangelism, community service and infrastructure development, adding that young people are central to both the present and future of the Church.
Titilola Aladekomo, the chief launcher,
called for stronger leadership within the church and improved support for ministers serving in rural and underserved communities.
Gbenga Adebayo, the lay president,
advocated the establishment of youth-focused churches and expanded skill development programmes to equip young people for employment and entrepreneurship.