Being the Opening Address by His Excellency Seyi Makinde, FNSE, Executive Governor of Oyo State at the Opening of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria on 5 August 2026
It gives me great pleasure to join you today as we formally open the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria here in Ibadan.
Let me begin by thanking the Methodist Church for its enduring contribution to our nation. For well over a century, this Church has not only preached the Gospel but has invested in education, healthcare, community development and the moral formation of generations of Nigerians. Nations are not built by governments alone. They are built by institutions that shape values, strengthen families and inspire hope. The Methodist Church has remained one of those institutions.
This year’s theme, “I Will Fight For You”, taken from Exodus 14:14, speaks to a truth that every generation must remember.
There are seasons when the challenges before us appear greater than our strength. Families face uncertainty. Communities seek peace. Nations search for direction. Yet Scripture reminds us that our confidence ultimately rests in God, whose faithfulness never fails.
But that promise also places a responsibility on us.
Those entrusted with leadership must ensure a 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 realise their God-given potential.
Leadership is not about privilege. It is about responsibility. It is measured not by the promises we make but by the lives we improve.
That is why partnerships between government and the Church remain so important. Government can build roads and hospitals. It can provide security and create policies. But building a nation also requires integrity, compassion and a shared sense of purpose. Those are values that faith communities continue to nurture every day.
Here in Oyo State, we have always believed that development is most meaningful when it improves the lives of ordinary people. 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.
Our nation does not lack talent. It does not lack resources. What Nigeria needs, now more than ever, is leadership that brings people together around a common purpose and the courage to place service above self. This is the type of leadership I will offer if I am elected the next president of Nigeria. So, let me use this opportunity to solicit your support. I am confident that with faith in God and commitment from all of us, our best days as a nation are still ahead.
As delegates gather from across our country and beyond, I hope this Conference will strengthen the bonds that unite us, deepen our commitment to service and renew our faith in what is possible when we work together under God’s guidance.
To all our visitors, I warmly welcome you to Oyo State. I trust that while you are here, you will experience not only our renowned hospitality but also the warmth, peace and rich heritage for which our dear State is known.
May your deliberations be fruitful.
May your fellowship be enriching.
And may Almighty God continue to guide the Methodist Church Nigeria as it advances His Kingdom here on earth.
It is now my singular honour and privilege to declare the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria officially open.
Thank you and God bless you.
Seyi Makinde
5 August 2026