Methodist Church Nigeria (MCN) has urged the Federal Government to confront corruption, insecurity and economic hardship.
The statement was made in a communiqué issued at the end of its 50th/15th Biennial Conference held in Ibadan from Sunday 2nd to Sunday 9th August 2026 under the theme “I Will Fight for You” (Exodus 14:14).
In the communiqué signed by the Secretary of the Conference the Rt. Rev. Dr Babatunde Taiwo, Conference Lay President Sir Ifeanyi Okechukwu and the Prelate, Dr Oliver Ali Aba, the Church acknowledged government reform efforts but expressed deep concern over what it called worsening economic hardship, hunger, insecurity, unemployment and declining living standards.
It identified corruption, impunity and mismanagement of public resources as major obstacles.
“Despite increased revenues to the Federal Government and higher allocations to states and local governments, the expected improvement in citizens’ welfare remains largely elusive, while substantial constituency project appropriations have often failed to produce visible grassroots development,” the communique read.
The Church called for transparent, accountable, and people-centred leadership that promotes investment, food security, and job creation.
Methodist Church also expressed alarm over what it described as recurring killings and attacks in some states.
“We express deep concern over the persistent insecurity across Nigeria, particularly the recurring killings and violent attacks in Benue and Plateau States, as well as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts, and other forms of violent criminality threatening lives and national stability,” they said.
It reiterated its backing for the establishment of State Police to strengthen grassroots security and rapid response.
The Church condemned recent xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, describing them as an affront to human dignity and African solidarity.
“We commend the Federal Government of Nigeria for the evacuation of affected Nigerians and urge the Governments of Nigeria and South Africa to intensify diplomatic engagement to safeguard lives, uphold justice, and strengthen the bonds of friendship between both nations,” the statement read.
The conference was attended by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who formally declared it open and other notable figures including former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.
(The Whistler)