By Mary Diallo Dakar
The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Kaduna, has concluded its 63rd Annual Diocesan Synod, issuing a strong call for national renewal, improved governance, and unity within both the Church and the country.
The Synod, held at the Methodist Church Nigeria in Kakuri, Kaduna, was themed “I Will Fight for You” (Exodus 14:14) and brought together clergy and lay members to reflect on faith, national challenges, and the role of the Church in society.
In its communiqué issued at the end of the gathering, the Synod expressed gratitude to God for continued guidance and sustenance, emphasizing that divine intervention remains central to overcoming personal and national difficulties.
Faith and Spiritual Emphasis
The Church reaffirmed its belief that God is the ultimate defender of His people and urged Christians to maintain steadfast faith, prayer, and obedience in the face of hardship. It stressed that believers should rely on divine help rather than human strength, describing victory and peace as assured for those who trust in God.
Concerns Over Nigeria’s Condition
The Synod raised concern over Nigeria’s current socio-economic and political situation, highlighting persistent inflation, unemployment, insecurity, corruption, and declining confidence in governance and the justice system. It also noted challenges in the education sector, particularly underfunding and deteriorating standards.
It called on government authorities to ensure transparency, accountability, and effective policy implementation, while urging security agencies to be strengthened and depoliticized. The communiqué also appealed for increased investment in education and for citizens to support credible leadership through the electoral process.
Call for National Renewal
Delegates urged Nigerians to seek divine intervention through prayer and repentance, while promoting unity, justice, and moral integrity. The Synod also called for a collective rejection of corruption, violence, and other social vices, expressing hope for national restoration and lasting peace.
Observations on the Church
The Synod acknowledged the Church’s continued influence in Nigeria but expressed concern over internal divisions and external pressures. It warned that disunity among Christians weakens the Church’s witness and effectiveness.
To address this, it recommended stronger unity within the Body of Christ, deeper ecumenical cooperation, and a renewed focus on discipleship, integrity, and Christ-centered teaching, while discouraging divisive doctrinal conflicts.
Role of the Church in Society
Reaffirming its mission, the Synod stated that the Church must serve as a moral compass for the nation, raise godly leaders, and speak truth to power with courage. It also described the Church as a beacon of hope, righteousness, and peace in society.
Appreciation and Appeals
The Synod commended the Kaduna State Government for its efforts toward peace and stability, and appreciated clergy, laity, and past leaders for their contributions to the Diocese’s growth.
It also appealed for support toward the restoration of Methodist educational institutions, the provision of a befitting Episcopal residence (Bishop’s Court), and increased financial contributions from members to support Church activities.
Conclusion
The Synod concluded with a declaration of faith that God will fight for His people, the Church will overcome its challenges, and Nigeria will experience restoration and renewal.
It ended with the affirmation: “The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
The communiqué was signed by His Grace, Most Rev. Ibrahim K. Chindo, Bishop/Archbishop of Kaduna, and Very Rev. Victor Ejeh Ejembi, Diocesan Synod Secretary
