NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi on Tuesday joined Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and thousands of faithful from across Nigeria and the diaspora at the opening of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church of Nigeria held in Ibadan.
The conference, one of the largest gatherings of Methodists in the country, brought together clergy, lay leaders, and delegates to deliberate on the church’s mission, national issues, and the role of faith in public life over the next two years.
Addressing the congregation, Obi thanked God for sustaining the Methodist Church through decades of service in education, healthcare, and community development. He said the church’s consistency offered important lessons for nation-building.
“I thank God for His faithfulness to the Methodist Church over the years and reflect on the immense potential Nigeria possesses as a nation,” Obi said. “What we need now is leadership that matches that potential with action, and institutions that remain true to their calling.”
With Nigeria facing rising cost of living, insecurity, and concerns over governance, Obi challenged the church to maintain its prophetic voice. He called on delegates not to retreat from speaking on issues affecting ordinary citizens.
“I encourage the Church and its delegates to remain steadfast in speaking truth to power, standing with the suffering masses, and continuing to advocate for justice, good governance, and a better Nigeria for all, especially in these challenging times,” he stated. “The Church remains one of our nation’s strongest voices of hope, conscience, and moral leadership.”
The former Anambra governor noted that religious institutions have historically shaped public discourse in Nigeria, often providing relief and advocacy where government structures fall short. He said that responsibility was even more urgent today, as many families continue to grapple with economic pressure.
Obi also used the platform to call for prayers for the country’s leadership. He thanked the Methodist Church for the invitation and asked members to intercede for those in public office.
“I ask that they continue to remember our nation in their prayers. I urge them always to pray that God Almighty would touch the hearts of politicians and leaders, so that they will always think and use public resources for the public good,” he said.
Governor Seyi Makinde, who hosted the conference in Ibadan, was acknowledged by Obi as “my dear brother.” The presence of the governor underscored the importance of the gathering, with other dignitaries and traditional rulers also in attendance.
In his remarks, Obi linked the theme of service within the Methodist tradition to the broader need for accountability in government. He argued that Nigeria’s progress would depend on leaders prioritizing citizens over personal interests, and on citizens and institutions demanding transparency.
The 50th/15th Biennial Conference is expected to feature panel discussions, elections of church officers, and resolutions on social and spiritual matters affecting members nationwide. Church leaders said the meeting would also focus on youth engagement, education, and the church’s humanitarian work.
Closing his address, Obi wished delegates a successful conference and reiterated his vision for the country.
“I wish them a fruitful and successful conference. A New Nigeria is Possible,” he said.
The biennial conference continues through the week in Ibadan, with delegates expected to adopt a communiqué outlining the church’s position on national issues at the end of the sessions.
