10/08/2026
HOREB TV SPECIAL REPORT
METHODIST CHURCH NIGERIA: 50TH/15TH BIENNIAL CONFERENCE COMMUNIQUÉ
IBADAN, 2–9 AUGUST 2026
1. DIVINE ASSURANCE IN TIMES OF NATIONAL UNCERTAINTY
The Methodist Church Nigeria has reaffirmed its unwavering confidence in God’s promise to defend and deliver His people, calling on Nigerians to resist fear and despair despite prevailing challenges. The declaration formed part of the official communiqué issued at the conclusion of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference held in the Archdiocese of Ibadan under the theme, “I Will Fight for You” (Exodus 14:14). The Church urged citizens to remain steadfast in faith, uphold righteousness, pursue justice and work collectively for the nation’s peace and progress.
2. ECONOMIC DISTRESS AND THE CALL FOR ACCOUNTABLE LEADERSHIP
Expressing grave concern over worsening economic hardship, hunger, insecurity and unemployment, the Church identified corruption, impunity and the mismanagement of public resources as major impediments to national development. While acknowledging government reform efforts, the Conference noted that increased revenues have not translated into improved welfare for ordinary Nigerians. It called for transparent, accountable and people‑centred leadership capable of decisively tackling corruption, protecting public resources, and promoting investment, food security and job creation
3. SUPPORT FOR STATE POLICE AMID PERSISTENT INSECURITY
The Church reiterated its support for the establishment of State Police as part of comprehensive security reforms aimed at strengthening grassroots security, intelligence gathering and rapid response to emerging threats. Delegates expressed deep concern over recurring killings and violent attacks, particularly in Benue and Plateau States, as well as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts. The Conference commended the successful rescue of abducted pupils, teachers and other citizens in Oyo, Ogun, Kwara and Niger States, honoured the memory of those who lost their lives to insecurity and pledged support for efforts to end insecurity through prayers, material support and moral instruction
4. CONDEMNATION OF XENOPHOBIC ATTACKS IN SOUTH AFRICA
The Church strongly condemned recent xenophobic attacks and anti‑immigrant protests in South Africa, describing them as a grave affront to human dignity, African solidarity and peaceful coexistence. It commended the Federal Government for evacuating affected Nigerians and urged both governments to intensify diplomatic engagement to safeguard lives, uphold justice and strengthen bilateral ties.
5. STAND AGAINST SEXUAL AND GENDER‑BASED VIOLENCE AND CHILD ABUSE
Reaffirming the sanctity of human life, the Conference condemned sexual and gender‑based violence, child abuse, human trafficking and all forms of exploitation of vulnerable persons. It also commended healthcare professionals for their sacrifice, welcomed the temporary truce between the Federal Government and the National Association of Resident Doctors, and called for sustained dialogue and prompt implementation of agreed measures to ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.
6. CALL FOR CREDIBLE ELECTIONS AND GOOD GOVERNANCE
The Church called on all political actors to uphold the rule of law and ensure peaceful, free, fair and credible elections in Nigeria. It welcomed the Federal Government’s reaffirmation of its commitment to democratic governance and respect for the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as its assurance that it neither seeks nor supports a one‑party state. The Conference urged those entrusted with public office to exercise their responsibilities with integrity, humility, justice, accountability and compassion
7.PARTNERSHIP BETWEEN FAITH COMMUNITIES AND GOVERNMENT
The Church called for sustained engagement between government and faith‑based organisations in the pursuit of national renewal. It noted the Federal Government’s commitment to deepen consultation with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) and other faith communities, stressing that the ministries of faith‑based organisations in education, healthcare, humanitarian service, peacebuilding and moral formation remain indispensable to national development.
8.CONGRATULATIONS TO NEW NBA PRESIDENT
The Conference congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo‑Okusanya, SAN, on her election as incoming President of the Nigerian Bar Association, describing her as a committed Methodist and praying that Almighty God would grant her wisdom, strength and grace in the discharge of her national responsibility.
9. APPRECIATION TO OYO STATE GOVERNMENT
The Church expressed profound appreciation to the Government and people of Oyo State for their warm hospitality and invaluable support towards the successful hosting of the Conference. It particularly commended the State Government and security agencies for providing a peaceful, safe and secure environment throughout the event.
10. FINAL DECLARATION: “THE LORD SHALL FIGHT FOR OUR BELOVED NATION”
The Conference called on Nigerians to reject fear, hopelessness and division and to trust in the unfailing promises of God. It urged leaders to govern with justice, accountability, compassion and the fear of God, while encouraging citizens to uphold righteousness, patriotism and peaceful coexistence. The Church reaffirmed its commitment to prayer, moral leadership and constructive engagement with government and other stakeholders for the peace, unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
With confidence in the Word of God, the Conference declared:
> “The Lord shall fight for our beloved nation, Nigeria, and we shall hold our peace.”
The communiqué was issued on 9 August 2026 and signed by;
The Secretary of Conference,
Rt. Rev. Dr. Babatunde A. Taiwo
Conference Lay President,
Sir (Ide) Ifeanyi N. Okechukwu, KJW
The Prelate,
His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, JP.
