Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde has publicly sought the support and prayers of the Methodist Church Nigeria for his 2027 presidential ambition, declaring that he is prepared to provide leadership that will unite Nigerians and place service above personal interests.
Makinde made the declaration on Wednesday while opening the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria at the Bashmor Event Centre in Ibadan, where he also called for stronger collaboration between government and faith-based institutions to build a more peaceful, just and prosperous country.
Addressing delegates at the conference, the governor said Nigeria’s development cannot be driven by government alone, stressing that religious institutions play a vital role in shaping values, strengthening families and inspiring hope.
He commended the Methodist Church for its long-standing contributions to education, healthcare, community development and moral instruction, describing such efforts as critical to national development.
Makinde said his administration in Oyo State has focused on improving the quality of life of residents by creating opportunities and ensuring development that benefits ordinary people.
According to him, Nigeria is not short of talent or natural resources but requires leadership capable of uniting citizens around a shared vision while placing national service above personal ambition.
“It is no secret that I am running to be the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and this is the type of leadership I will offer if given the opportunity to serve,” the governor said.
He appealed to members of the Methodist Church to support his aspiration through prayers and encouragement, expressing confidence that Nigeria’s future remains bright with collective commitment and faith in God.
Makinde also reflected on the significance of the conference venue, recalling that he prayed at the same location in 2018 before contesting for the Oyo State governorship.
He said returning to the venue during the church conference offered another opportunity to pray concerning his presidential aspiration.
Drawing from the conference theme, “I Will Fight for You”, based on Exodus 14:14, the governor said while the scripture teaches believers to place their confidence in God, it also reminds leaders of their responsibility to uphold justice, truth, peace and equal opportunities for all citizens regardless of their background.
Speaking at the conference, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to address insecurity, inflation, kidnapping and banditry across the country.
He commended the federal government, the Oyo State Government and security agencies for securing the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The Methodist Prelate also encouraged Nigerians to remain prayerful while urging governments at all levels to adopt more proactive security measures and avoid paying ransom to kidnappers.
Several top officials accompanied the governor to the conference, including Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Environment, Ademola Aderinto; Commissioner for Education, Segun Olayiwola; Senior Executive Assistant on General Duties, Bayo Lawal; Executive Assistant on Administration, Rev. Idowu Ogedengbe; and Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Christian Wing), Bishop David Moradeyo.
