By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Southern Conference of the United Methodist Church has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to seek divine intervention to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including economic instability, rising costs, and systemic corruption.
Rev. Dr. Philip Micah Dopah, leader of the Southern Conference, made the appeal during the 42nd Session of the Conference held at UMC Number 1, Zing, in Zing Local Government Area.
“Our nation faces numerous difficulties, including surging prices for petroleum and commodities, a failing national grid, mounting debt, and widespread corruption,” Dopah said. “We pray that God grants the president the wisdom and strength to lead Nigerians out of these challenging times.”
The cleric also commended Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for initiatives such as free primary and secondary education, payment of pensions, implementing a minimum wage of ₦70,000, and efforts to attract investors and boost agricultural development.
The church further requested government support in providing a transformer and solar panels for its Camp Ground at Appawa and Kakulu Theological Seminary in Zing, emphasizing the benefit such infrastructure would bring to their mission and the broader community.
Theme and Spiritual Reflections
The conference adopted the theme “Behold, I am coming soon; my reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done” (Revelation 22:12). Dopah noted that the theme serves as a spiritual reminder for Christians to prepare for the second coming of Christ.
In his sermon, Conference Evangelist Rev. Cletus David Kuhturu highlighted the importance of integrity, stating, “God will judge people based on their secret deeds. Our words and actions, whether public or private, will determine the rewards we receive.”
The Acting Lay Leader, Hon. Yunana Kinka, echoed this sentiment, urging Christians to remain steadfast in their faith. “The day of reckoning is near. As believers, we must stand firm and live true to our faith,” Kinka said.
Community and Political Engagement
The event also featured Hon. Joseph Kasson, representing Yorro State Constituency, who expressed gratitude to the church for its support during his election campaign.
“I came to thank God and the members of this conference for their prayers and backing, which enabled me to serve in the State House of Assembly,” Kasson said.
Key Highlights
The session also unveiled the church’s 2025 Conference Diary, annual theme, Common Lectionary, and commemorative T-shirts. These were launched by Rev. Dr. Dopah, who reaffirmed the church’s commitment to spiritual growth and community service.
The Southern Conference of the United Methodist Church aims to use its annual gathering as a platform for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and the promotion of societal development.