Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Lagos Mainland, has called on the government at all levels to adopt inclusive and people-oriented policies capable of reducing the suffering of citizens, especially the vulnerable.

It also advocated transparent and accountable management of public funds and promotion of local production and economic diversification, as well as increased investment in infrastructure, education, and human capital development.

The church gave the charge in a communiqué issued yesterday at its 32nd synod.

The Synod, which commended the Lagos State Government for improvement in educational and healthcare infrastructure but urged greater attention to community policing and intelligence gathering to combat insecurity, expressed concern over the persistent hardship facing Nigerians, including insecurity, inflation, unemployment, high fuel prices, declining purchasing power, inequality, and unstable electricity supply.

In the communiqué, signed by the Diocesan Lay President, Sir Olusola O. Adu, and the Archbishop and Bishop of Lagos Mainland, Most Rev. (Dr) Obafemi B. Adeleye, the church also emphasised that good governance must be built on integrity, accountability, justice, and selfless service.

It called for stronger democratic institutions, strict adherence to the rule of law, credible elections, and a sincere fight against corruption.

It also urged the political leaders to place national interest above ethnic, religious, and personal considerations.

The Synod described insecurity as a major threat to national stability and economic growth, and urged security agencies to adopt more proactive and intelligence-driven approaches, while the government should address the root causes of insecurity, especially poverty and unemployment.

It noted that despite Nigeria’s challenges, the nation could attain peace, unity, and sustainable development through faith in God, responsible governance, justice, and active participation of all citizens.

The church, however, pledged continued prayers for the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria. (The Guardian)