The Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has charged faith leaders and the government to work together to build a just and people-centered Nigeria.
Makinde, who gave the charge on Wednesday, formally declared opened, the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria in Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
The conference, which was held at the Bashmol Event Centre in Ibadan, drew delegates from across the country and beyond.
Governor Makinde expressed delight at hosting the conference and commended the Methodist Church for its contributions to national development.
“For well over a century, this church has not only preached the gospel, but has invested in education, has invested in healthcare, has invested in community development, has invested in moral formation of generations of Nigeria,” Makinde said.
”Nations are not built by government alone. They are built by institutions that shape values, strengthen families, and inspire hope. The Methodist Church has remained one of those institutions.”
Speaking on the conference theme, ‘I Will Fight for You’ from Exodus 14:14, the governor said the scripture reminds Nigerians that confidence rests in God, but also places responsibility on leaders.
”Those entrusted with leadership must ensure a fair and just society. We must pursue peace. We must seek and stand up for truth… We must ensure opportunities that allow every child, regardless of background, to realize their God-given potential. Leadership is not about privilege. It is about responsibility,” he stated.
Makinde stressed that government alone cannot build a nation.
”Yes, government can build roads and hospitals. It can provide security and create policies… But building a nation requires integrity, compassion, and a shared sense of purpose. Those are values that faith communities continue to nurture every day.”
The governor also spoke on leadership and service delivery in Oyo State, noting that development must touch ordinary citizens.
”Our vision has never been simply to complete projects, but to build a society where people can live with dignity, pursue opportunity, and have confidence in tomorrow. That same aspiration is one we all share for Nigeria.”
Makinde used the medium to announce his presidential ambition to the conference.
”Well, it’s no secret that I am running to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. And this is the type of leadership I will offer if I am given the opportunity to serve Nigeria.”
He solicited the support and prayers of the church, adding: “I’m confident that with faith in God and commitment from all of us, our best days as a nation is still ahead.”
The governor also recalled a personal connection to the venue, saying he prayed at the same Centre in 2018 for God’s will in his governorship aspiration.
“I prayed then to God that let His will, and only His will, be done in my aspiration to be the Governor of Oyo State. And the year after, I became the Governor of Oyo State. I didn’t ask to be brought here this time around! But I pray also today… that let God’s will and God’s will alone be done.”
