The Diocese of Ilesa, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has called for urgent action to address worsening insecurity in Nigeria, including the establishment of state police and stronger protection for Christians across the country.
The resolutions formed part of the communiqué issued at the end of the First Session of the 18th Synod of the Diocese, held between May 8 and May 10, 2026, at St. Peter’s Anglican Church, Isona, Ilesa, Osun State.
The Synod, presided over by the Diocesan Bishop and President of Synod, Rt. Rev. Prof. Emmanuel Oladapo Folorunsho Asaju, brought together bishops, clergy, church leaders, delegates, and guests from across the Anglican Communion.
Day One Focuses on Worship, Insecurity and Growth of the Diocese
Activities on the opening day began with a Holy Communion Service, prayers, worship sessions, and a colourful procession by choir members, clergy, and church leaders into the church auditorium.
Speaking during the service, Bishop Asaju urged Christians to remain steadfast in worship and faithfulness to God despite prevailing challenges in society.
Delivering the synod sermon on the theme, “Ministry of Angels: God’s Provision for the Security of His People,” Rt. Rev. Dr. Abel Ajibodu explained that God still uses angels to protect, guide, and minister to His people.
He encouraged Christians to remain prayerful, faithful, and holy while trusting God amid insecurity and hardship in the country. He also warned believers against worshipping angels, stressing that worship belongs only to God.
One of the major highlights of the first day was the presentation of the Bishop’s Charge by Bishop Asaju. In his address, the bishop expressed concern over rising insecurity, kidnapping, and economic hardship in Nigeria, urging government at all levels to improve security and economic conditions.
The bishop also reviewed activities within the Diocese, noting progress in evangelism, church planting, and outreach programmes. He disclosed that workers’ salaries had continued to be paid regularly despite economic difficulties.
Bishop Asaju further highlighted ongoing developments at the Heritage City project in Ilesa and announced that the Victoria Medical Centre had commenced operations successfully.
Goodwill messages were delivered by several church leaders and dignitaries, including the Most Rev. Dr. Ephraim Adebola Ademowo and the retired Bishop of Ilesa Diocese, Rt. Rev. Dr. Olubayo Sowale.
Day Two Emphasises Evangelism and Church Planting
The second day of the Synod centred on spiritual renewal, mission work, and church planting efforts.
Activities commenced with another Holy Communion Service led by the Imo and Igangan Archdeaconries.
During the Bible Study session, Bishop Ajibodu continued teachings on the ministry of angels, describing angels as spiritual beings created by God to carry out divine assignments and assist believers.
Another major feature of the day was a sermon delivered by Pastor Dr. Odun Orioke on the topic, “Rekindling the Fire of Mission and Church Planting.”
Pastor Orioke urged Christians to intensify evangelism, pray fervently, live holy lives, and demonstrate love to others. He also encouraged church leaders to invest more in mentoring young people and creating programmes that would strengthen their spiritual growth.
Many participants described the sessions as spiritually uplifting and inspiring, with renewed commitment to evangelism and Christian service.
The Synod later concluded on the third day with a Thanksgiving Service.
Synod Communiqué Highlights Security Concerns
In the communiqué read by Barrister Ogunkeye, the Synod expressed deep concern over the state of national and global affairs, describing the world as being in serious turmoil.
The Synod lamented wars in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, and the involvement of the United States in global conflicts, saying the crises had resulted in severe humanitarian challenges.
On Nigeria’s situation, the Synod condemned increasing cases of banditry, kidnapping, insurgency, and attacks linked to Fulani herdsmen. It also criticised corruption and the alleged diversion of funds meant for military equipment.
The Diocese called for:
Establishment of state police;
Removal of terrorist sympathisers from positions of authority;
International assistance where necessary to combat insecurity;
Greater protection for Christians facing attacks.
The Synod also urged Christians to organise lawful communal self-protection while trusting in God’s divine security.
Ministry of Angels and Diocesan Achievements Highlighted
The communiqué further explained that the Synod theme focused extensively on the ministry of angels, affirming that angels are spiritual beings created by God to serve Him and minister to believers.
The Synod identified various categories of angels, including Archangels, warrior angels, healing angels, worship angels, and guardian angels.
Church leaders also highlighted several diocesan achievements, including successful evangelism outreaches, youth and women’s programmes, children’s retreats, and the annual Jesus Celebration Crusade featuring Evangelist Joseph Adelakun (Ayewa) and Pastor Niyi Adedokun.
The Synod equally noted progress at the Heritage City project, where road construction and infrastructural expansion are ongoing. About 70 buildings, including conference halls, guest houses, shopping complexes, and a radio house, have reportedly been completed.
The Victoria Medical Centre was also commended for carrying out eye surgeries, screening hundreds of patients, and recording successful childbirths since it began operations.
The Diocese announced that it would host the next Ijesa Anglican Unity Convention at the Cathedral of St. John, Iloro-Ijesa, in December 2026.
At the end of the gathering, the Synod expressed gratitude to God for the progress recorded within the Diocese and reaffirmed its commitment to the propagation of the Gospel, peace, justice, and the welfare of Christians in Nigeria and beyond.
Photos:
(All photos credit: Ilesa Diocese Media Team)
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