Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has called for stronger collaboration between government and faith-based institutions to build a more peaceful, just and prosperous Nigeria, stressing that national development requires the collective efforts of both public institutions and moral leaders.

Makinde made the call on Wednesday while declaring open the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria at the Bashmor Event Centre, Ibadan.

The governor  commended the Methodist Church for its long-standing contributions to education, healthcare, community development and the moral upbringing of Nigerians.

According to the governor, governments alone cannot build enduring nations, noting that religious institutions play a critical role in shaping values, strengthening families and inspiring hope among citizens.

Drawing from the conference theme anchored on Exodus 14:14, Makinde said although the scripture teaches believers to place their confidence in God, it also reminds leaders of their responsibility to promote justice, fairness, peace and equal opportunities for all citizens irrespective of their backgrounds.

He said the Oyo State administration has remained focused on people-centred development aimed at improving the quality of life of residents, adding that Nigeria possesses abundant human and natural resources but requires visionary leadership capable of uniting the people behind a common national purpose.

The governor also reiterated his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, declaring that he is prepared to provide inclusive and selfless leadership if entrusted with the mandate to lead the country.

He appealed to the Methodist Church for prayers and support, expressing optimism that Nigeria’s future remains bright with collective commitment and faith in God.

Makinde recalled that the venue of the conference held special significance for him, revealing that he had prayed there in 2018 before contesting the Oyo State governorship election. He said the conference provided another opportunity to seek God’s guidance concerning his presidential aspiration.

He said: “For well over a century, the Methodist Church has not only preached the gospel but has also invested significantly in education, healthcare, community development and the moral formation of generations of Nigerians.

“In Oyo State, our vision has never been merely to execute projects but to build a society where people can live with dignity, pursue opportunities and have confidence in the future. Nigeria is blessed with immense talent and resources. What we need now is leadership that unites our people around a shared vision and places service above self.

“It is no secret that I am running for the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is the kind of leadership I intend to offer if given the opportunity to serve. I therefore solicit your prayers and support, believing that with faith in God and collective commitment, our nation’s best days are still ahead.”

In his address on the conference theme, “I Will Fight for You,” the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba (JP), urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts at tackling insecurity, inflation, kidnapping and other socio-economic challenges confronting the country.

The Methodist Prelate lauded the Federal Government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies for the successful rescue of the schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.

He urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer for God’s mercy, justice and prosperity, while calling on governments at all levels to adopt more proactive measures in addressing insecurity and to avoid paying ransom to kidnappers.

Among those who accompanied Governor Makinde to the conference were the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Ademola Aderinto; Commissioner for Education, Segun Olayiwola; Senior Executive Assistant to the Governor on General Duties, Chief Bayo Lawal; Executive Assistant to the Governor on Administration, Rev. Idowu Ogedengbe; and Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Christian Wing), Bishop David Moradeyo, among other government officials.