Methodist Diocese of Lagos Mainland Urges Faith, Reforms, and Youth Empowerment at 31st Synod

The Diocese of Lagos Mainland, Methodist Church Nigeria, has reaffirmed its spiritual and civic commitment to national renewal, youth development, and sustainable governance as it concluded its 31st Annual Synod at the Imota Circuit. The event was held under the leadership of His Grace, The Most Rev. Dr Obafemi Bamidele Adeleye, and the Diocesan Lay President, Sir Olusola Adu.

Held from Friday 9th to Sunday 11th May 2025, the Synod issued a detailed communiqué addressing critical national issues, with a central call for renewed faith, unity, and purposeful action amidst ongoing challenges.

Hope in Difficult Times

The Synod, themed “He Will Rise Again,” encouraged Christians and Nigerians at large not to lose hope in the face of national and global uncertainties. It urged members to trust in the saving grace of the risen Christ and to look to the future with optimism and spiritual commitment.

Church-State Collaboration on Youth Development

Describing youth empowerment as a foundational pillar for sustainable growth, the Synod mandated every circuit in the diocese to establish functional youth development initiatives. The Church also called for collaboration with the Lagos State Government and relevant agencies to ensure that young people can access available training and empowerment schemes. Such partnerships, it stated, would prepare youths to become responsible and spiritually grounded leaders.

National Security Concerns

Addressing the troubling security landscape, the Synod expressed deep concern over insurgencies, communal clashes, and the farmers-herders crisis. It urged the Federal Government to adopt intelligence-led policing, strengthen community security structures, and ensure justice for affected communities. The Church also recommitted itself to intercessory prayers for peace and divine intervention.

Economic Hardship and Reform Agenda

While acknowledging the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Synod noted the rising cost of living and the economic strain on citizens. It called on the government to intensify efforts in food production, stabilise market prices, and support small and medium enterprises to alleviate hardship.

Commendation of Lagos State Government

The Synod praised the Lagos State Government for development across sectors such as healthcare, education, transportation, and digital governance. Notable mentions included improvements in water transport, road infrastructure, and urban renewal efforts.

However, it also recommended targeted interventions to address environmental degradation, overburdened infrastructure, and the empowerment of vulnerable populations through expanded welfare programmes and strategic public-private partnerships.

Urban Sustainability and Environmental Innovation

The Synod aligned itself with the state’s vision of a cleaner, smarter Lagos and urged increased investment in waste-to-wealth innovations and sustainable urban development. The Church encouraged the private sector to collaborate more robustly with government to create jobs and enhance service delivery.

A Call to Prayer and Action

Concluding the communiqué, the Synod called on all faithful to remain united in prayer, dedicated to the mission of Christ, and committed to nation-building.

"With faith, diligence, and collective responsibility, Nigeria shall rise again," the statement read.

The communiqué was signed by His Grace, The Most Rev. Dr Obafemi Bamidele Adeleye, Bishop of the Diocese, and Sir Olusola Adu, Diocesan Lay President.