From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Christian leaders under the Ecclesiastical Province of Kwara, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), have warned political leaders against corruption, show vision and integrity in addressing Nigeria’s deepening economic and security crises.
The charge came during the 26th Provincial Council Meeting held recently at the Diocese of Offa, Kwara State.
The Archbishop of Kwara Province, Most Rev. Israel Afolabi Amoo, lamented that Nigerians are facing unprecedented hardship due to what he described as “a lack of purposeful leadership and accountability” at various levels of government.
“Our nation is besieged by insecurity, economic hardship, and political instability. The inflation rate keeps rising, unemployment is worsening, and yet we cannot see any serious attempt by the government to improve the people’s welfare,” Archbishop Amoo said. “Since the beginning of this administration, it has been one unfulfilled promise after another. The abrupt removal of petrol subsidy without proper planning dealt a direct blow to ordinary Nigerians.”
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He expressed concern over what he called the “collapse of values in governance,” noting that corruption and selfish politics have eroded public trust.
“It is disheartening that instead of addressing the real issues facing the country, our leaders are preoccupied with the next election. Many of them are more concerned about power retention than national progress,” he added.
Amoo urged both leaders and followers to work together in tackling corruption and restoring good governance, stressing that national transformation requires collective moral renewal. “The challenge of building a nation is not only for those in leadership but also for the citizens. Everyone must reject corruption and wickedness in all forms. However, as it is often said, everything rises and falls on leadership,” he said.
Addressing members of the clergy and laity, the Archbishop appreciated their sacrifices in the face of economic hardship, urging them to remain steadfast in their service to God and humanity. “Our confidence is in the Lord who will lift our burdens. Your labour in the vineyard is recognised and will be rewarded,” he assured.
The Archbishop also congratulated the Diocese of Offa, led by the Rt. Rev. Solomon Olusola Akanbi, for hosting the council meeting, and commended the Diocese of Kwara for nurturing the newly created Missionary Diocese of Oyun.
He prayed for the Bishop-elect of Oyun, Venerable Solomon Adewumi, as he begins his episcopal journey.
Speaking on the theme of the meeting, “Take Up Thy Cross and Follow Me” (Matthew 16:24), Archbishop Amoo, reminded Christians that true discipleship requires self-denial, humility, and sacrifice. “Following Christ is not about comfort or reward—it demands total commitment and willingness to suffer for the sake of the gospel,” he explained.
He called on Christians to embrace servant leadership and moral integrity in all spheres of life. “Authority is not for self-importance but for service. As Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, we too must lead by serving others,” he said.
The Archbishop further urged believers to live by example, supporting one another and promoting unity in the Church. “We must take up our cross not for worldly gain but for the glory of God. Christ is coming again for a church without blemish—a beacon of hope to a weary world,” he declared.
The two-day council meeting featured reports from dioceses across the province, including updates on ongoing projects such as the provincial hostel, which is nearing completion. The gathering also reviewed activities of women’s organizations, clergy and wives’ conferences, and evangelism programmes.
Archbishop Amoo concluded with a prayer for Nigeria’s peace and divine intervention, saying, “Our survival as a nation is only in the hands of God. We will keep praying and working for a better Nigeria.”
