The Methodist Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Akinwale, urged Nigerians on Tuesday to pray for President Bola Tinubu’s administration instead of condemning it.
At a press conference marking the 40th anniversary of the Methodist Church in Abuja, Akinwale emphasized that criticism won’t solve Nigeria’s problems and that divine intervention is needed.
He stressed that Nigeria’s solution lies in returning to God, urging both leaders and citizens to seek divine guidance.
The Archbishop said, “If you look at the American dollar, you see ‘In God We Trust.’ The only solution to Nigeria’s problems is to take this nation back to God.
“It is not for us to condemn our leaders. Like leader, like people—no magic will happen unless we return this nation to God. We must realize that we are extremely helpless without divine intervention.
“In the midst of this confusion, we look up to God to take absolute control. Both leaders and citizens must commit to taking this nation back to God and seeking His guidance. We are all stakeholders, so we have a duty to pray for our nation and our leaders.
“My advice to the government is to seek God’s guidance and direction and to be truthful to the people. Apart from God, nothing can be achieved. No leader can succeed without divine help.”
Akinwale also highlighted the church’s contributions to Abuja’s education, healthcare, and social welfare, including schools, hospitals, and other institutions.
According to him, the church plans to expand beyond Abuja, establishing more churches, schools, and hospitals.
He explained that the Methodist Church Abuja has set ambitious goals for the next 40 years, aiming to spread the gospel and provide services to humanity; noting that the church has grown significantly since its establishment in 1983, with over 3,000 cathedral seats and expansion plans.
He said, “I can tell you that the Abuja Methodist Church, which started in a small parlour 40 years ago, has exceeded the expectations of even us members. By God’s grace, we have expanded beyond the nation’s capital, reaching as far as Niger State, with 3,000 seats within the Diocese of Abuja.
“In the next 40 years, we are expanding further. Our reach will extend beyond the Federal Capital Territory. We will reach every hamlet, every nook and cranny. The gospel will be preached everywhere. Our mission, vision, and plan for the next 40 years is to spread the gospel.”
