The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has urged the federal government to seek international assistance if it is unable to contain the increasing wave of killings, kidnappings, and violence across the country.
He made the appeal during the consecration of fifteen bishops-elect in Abuja, highlighting the urgent need to address Nigeria’s escalating security crisis.
“The persecution of Christians and the violence in this land cannot be ignored,” Ndukuba said. He expressed concern over clergy members who have been abducted, noting that several pastors and their families remain in captivity without resolution.
“As I speak, some of our pastors and their families have been kidnapped from their churches and are yet to be released. If the government cannot handle it, seeking help is necessary,” he added.
Ndukuba also raised concerns about the moral decline among youths, emphasizing that the character and guidance of the nation’s young people would determine Nigeria’s future. He encouraged parents to model discipline and godliness while affirming the intelligence and creativity of the younger generation.
He said, “As a church, we continue to pray for them, invest in them, and nurture them through our Joshua Generation mission.”
The Primate expressed confidence that Nigerian youths, if properly guided, would remain resilient despite the challenges surrounding them.
Addressing the newly consecrated bishops, Ndukuba urged patience, sacrifice, and faithfulness in their calling, emphasizing that church leadership demands courage and dedication.
“This is God’s call upon their lives. Following Jesus requires dying to self, taking up the cross, and being ready to serve,” he said, praying that God would strengthen and guide them in their new roles.
The fifteen bishops-elect include Ven. Samuel O. Ogunmiluyi (Irele Ese-Odo), Ven. Francis O. Bankole (Ekiti South), Ven. Boma P. Briggs (Kalabari), Ven. Ebenezer A. Adewole (Lagos South West), Ven. Benjamin E. Idume (Ozoro), Ven. Olubode A. Otenaike (Idanre), Ven. David Michson (Ikom), Ven. Gershinen P. Dajur (Keffi-Karshi), Ven. Luka B. Allu (Nasarawa), Ven. Ifeanyi V. Akunna (Ogoja), Ven. Ebenezer Familoni (Oyo South), Ven. Solomon Adewumi (Oyun), Rev. Canon Rika G. Ibrahim (Takum), and Ven. Ayuba Kanta (Zuru).
The Primate concluded by praying that the new bishops would faithfully feed the flock, teach the world, and boldly proclaim the gospel.
