The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, has issued official guidelines on how politicians and government officials are to be received during church services and programmes across all its parishes.

Under the new directive, church officials are prohibited from eulogising or exalting any guest in a manner that could bring the Church into disrepute.

Additionally, any guest expected to address the congregation must be engaged in prior discussions to provide appropriate guidance. Such guests must also be clearly informed that the Church is not a platform for promoting partisan views or political propaganda.

The Church has recently faced criticism for allegedly offering its altar to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister. Nyesom Wike, during a thanksgiving service at St. James Anglican Church in Asokoro, Abuja. Wike was accused of using the occasion to campaign and attack political opponents.

In a memo signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Revd Dr. Henry Ndukuba, during the Episcopal Consultation held in the Diocese of Nike, Enugu, the Church acknowledged growing concerns about the use of church services as political platforms, warning that such practices risk compromising the integrity of Christian worship.

In response, the Church outlined clear protocols for hosting political and government figures, stressing that leaders and officiants must avoid statements or conduct that could be construed as partisan or sectional.

The memo also noted that, where possible, guests should not be allowed to use the Church’s lectern, as it is consecrated for the reading of God’s Word.

The guidelines emphasise the importance of maintaining a welcoming and respectful atmosphere while safeguarding the Church’s neutrality, core values, and divine mandate.

“The Church remains open to all persons, including politicians and government officials, in both its services and other programmes,” the statement reads. “In keeping with its calling and inclusive nature, the Church must not engage in or promote partisanship. It must diligently avoid speeches, conduct, or events that may incite division or foster political bias within the body of Christ.”

The Church further reiterated its role within national life, affirming its responsibility to engage with authorities on matters that affect the faithful and broader society.

“The Church of Nigeria remains committed, under God, to being the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13–14), upholding the nation in prayer, and offering godly counsel to those in positions of authority,” the statement concluded.