By Philomina Attah
The Methodist Church Nigeria celebrated a monumental milestone, marking 40 years of its establishment in the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at a press conference at the Methodist Cathedral of Unity, Wuse Zone 3, His Grace, Archbishop Michael Olusegun Akinwale highlighted the church’s profound contributions to the spiritual and social lives of its members.
He said that since its humble beginnings in 1983, the Methodist Church has grown from a small fellowship into a thriving archdiocese, deeply influencing the spiritual narrative of the region.
He stated that the church has expanded beyond the initial expectations, with the establishment of three dioceses within the archdiocese and plans to extend its reach further in the next 40 years.
“I can tell you that the Methodist church that started in a very small house of 40 years ago has extended beyond the frontier and our expectations.
“It shows that God is at work. Currently, by the grace of God we have extended to outside the shores of Abuja. The Church has gone as far as Niger and Nasarawa states.
“And I can assure you that in the next 40 years, we are taking over all the lurk and cranny in this land and far beyond. The Methodist Church will extend it frontiers beyond the Federal Capital Territory, he said.
Archbishop Akinwale recounted the church’s pivotal role in promoting scriptural holiness, expanding educational opportunities, and providing critical health services across the territory.
He noted that the church has also played a significant role in nation-building, fostering unity and cultural diversity through its outreach programmes and partnerships with the government.
“The impact of the Methodist Church in Abuja over the past four decades cannot be overstated.”
He also called on all Nigerians to join in celebrating this historic occasion.
On the state of the nation, the Archbishop urged Nigerians to turn to God in prayer for guidance and direction.
He emphasised the importance of righteous leadership and the shared responsibility of both leaders and citizens in seeking God’s will for the country.
“We should turn back to God in sincerity of purpose, not with deceit. Let both the leaders, the led, the followers be committed in taking this nation back to God to seek the face of God.
“That is the only way out. The truth of the matter is that there is confusion everywhere. In the midst of the confusion, we are looking up to God to take absolute control of the nation.
“No magic will take place except we take this nation back to God and ask God to change the mind of our leaders and change the mind of the followers as well,” he further stated.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the celebrations will continue throughout the week, featuring various events that underscore the church’s ongoing commitment to spiritual growth, social services, and national development. (NAN)