Nigeria’s challenges temporary, says Methodist Archbishop Akinwale

The Methodist Archbishop of Abuja, His Grace Most Reverend (Dr.) Michael O. Akinwale, has urged Nigerians to be patient with the government, stressing that the current challenges facing the country are just temporary.

Speaking at the enthronement of Right Reverend (Dr.) Frederick A. G. Onoja as the new Bishop of the Kubwa Diocese on Sunday in Abuja, Akinwale, who stressed the need for Nigerians to see the country as a divine project, noted that every country has its challenges, assuring that Nigeria will rise again.

He said, “What we are passing through is a phase, and there will be light at the end of the tunnel. Every country has its own challenges; it’s not peculiar to Nigeria. What matters is seeing Nigeria as a divine project and our commonwealth. We need patriotism, patience, and to give the government some time. These issues didn’t arise overnight, and solutions will take time. Everyone must play their part.

“Everybody, wherever you find yourself, either as a clerk, a permanent secretary, a chairman of a local government council, a state governor, wherever you find yourself, play your part and play it honestly well under the fear of God, and Nigeria will be a better place. There is no other country that is richly endowed, richly blessed, than Nigeria. So, Nigeria will rise again by the grace of God.”

Akinwale urged the new bishop to lead with wisdom, courage, and a commitment to unity and collaboration.

He encouraged members of the diocese to support the new bishop in his ministry, stressing the importance of unity and collaboration.

Akinwale said, “It’s a Herculean task, but when God is involved, it will always be a peaceful journey. All he needs to do is work with his lay president and members, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead him.

“Administering a church isn’t easy, but with God’s guidance, it becomes manageable. I believe he has the capacity to make this diocese formidable, and I wish him well. All we can do is pray for him because it’s a divine mission.”

The ceremony also featured the presentation of Elder James Duru as the Lay President of the Diocese. Elder Duru expressed his commitment to working closely with Bishop Onoja to further the mission of the church and foster a spirit of service among the laity.

In his inaugural address, Bishop Frederick Onoja expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to lead with humility, faith, and a commitment to the growth of the church.

He said, “I am here to work and will need the understanding, cooperation, and support of the people of Kubwa, Methodists, and even non-Methodists. Our mission is to advance God’s Kingdom, save souls, and positively impact society, especially in the face of negative influences. We aim to shine the light of Jesus in our community to glorify God.”

Bishop Onoja also encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith.

He added, “Don’t give up or lose hope. Life may be hard, but we still have God. Surviving in Nigeria today is by His grace, not by our income or capacity. Men may fail us, but God will not. Let’s draw closer to Him, and our Nigeria shall be better.”

The event, which drew attendees from across the region, was meticulously organised under the leadership of Sir Uwem Useh, KCW, Chairman of the Planning Committee, and the Very Reverend (Dr.) Samuel Jephthah Friday, Secretary of the Planning Committee.