The Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr Oliver Ali Aba JP, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice, Senator Kashim Shettima to prioritize economic reforms, security overhaul and national cohesion in providing qualitative leadership to Nigerians.
This is just as he urged Nigerians to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration with prayer for God’s wisdom, guidance and divine favour to rest on the leaders in their efforts to implement ongoing reforms aimed at addressing the country’s socio-economic and security challenges.
The head of Nigeria’s premier Church – Methodist Church Nigeria stated this while presenting the 14-point communique at the end of the 42nd Council of Bishops held at Methodist Cathedral of Unity, Wuse, Abuja.
His Eminence Ali Aba stated that the current leadership is aware of the accumulated issues facing the nation and is committed to finding sustainable solutions.
He noted that the reform agenda has the potential to reposition Nigeria and tackle the insecurity threatening its unity.
”The Council commends the Federal Government for assenting to the new tax reform bill, aimed at improving the nation’s tax framework. We strongly advise the government to ensure its full implementation, thereby enhancing revenue generation, promoting economic growth, and fostering a more business- friendly environment
“We must stop blaming past leaders for today’s challenges,” the cleric said.
”It is time for all Nigerians to join hands in patriotism to drive national growth and stability.”
The Prelate also emphasized the importance of national unity, mutual love, and personal sacrifice in building a peaceful and prosperous country.
The Council expressed deep concern over the suspension of Democratic structure in Rivers State and emphasized the need for any solution that align and safeguard democratic governance.
He called on the government to address the growing unemployment rate among graduates, warning that joblessness could lead youths into socially disruptive activities.
In addition to economic concerns, Prelate Ali Aba advised citizens to prioritize their health through regular physical exercise and routine medical check-ups.
He assured that the Church would continue to offer prayers for the nation’s progress and urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts in resolving the ongoing farmer-herder clashes in the North Central region.
According to him, the Council of Bishops had made a passionate appeal to authorities to take decisive action to end the violence and restore peace to affected communities.
Earlier on Sunday afternoon during the Holy Eucharist service to bring the Council to a close, the Rt Rev Amos K. Olu Ogunrinde in his sermon stressed the need for every Christian to have a relationship with Jesus Christ if they wants their situation to change for better.
“We need to charge our spiritual lives in the word of God,” he stated.
Bishop Ogunrinde admonished the congregants to shun pretence, hypocrisy, living fake lives and embrace living a life of holiness.
The Methodist faithful in Abuja Archdiocese then joined the Bishops in thanksgiving to God for a successful Council.
Archdiocese of Uyo in Akwa Ibom State is expected to host the Council of Bishops in 2026.
