Christians in Nigeria must take an active role in governance or risk being ruled by the unjust, warns Apostle Titilope Oluwadare, leader of the Nigeria National Christian Coalition (NNCC). Speaking at a press briefing, she stressed that political disengagement by believers has allowed secularism and corrupt leadership to flourish, urging the Church to reclaim its rightful influence in shaping the nation’s future.
Oluwadare’s message comes at a time when Nigeria faces critical political and economic challenges, with faith communities playing an increasingly vital role in national discourse. Drawing parallels with Christian political movements in the United States, particularly during Donald Trump’s presidency, she noted that history has repeatedly shown that when people of faith remain passive, their values are pushed to the margins. Citing an opinion piece in the London Guardian, she argued that the Church must learn from global trends where cultural shifts have prompted Christian engagement in governance, stressing that Nigeria must follow suit.
Her call for action is not just about participation in elections but about a complete ideological revolution where Christian values shape African policies and governance. “We are a new generation of Christ’s disciples—praying, seeking God’s face, and equipping our people for leadership,” she declared, outlining the NNCC’s vision to empower believers with political knowledge and leadership skills.
Oluwadare, who has a background in political science, public administration, and 35 years of experience in the banking sector, shared how her personal journey led her to this mission. She likened her calling to that of Moses, saying that some people are chosen to witness the struggles of God’s people so they can lead them to freedom. Tracing historical Christian-led movements from 18th-century France to the abolitionist movements in the UK and America, she emphasized that secular forces have long attempted to remove God from governance, and the time has come for the Church to reclaim its place.
She presented a seven-point action plan urging Christians to actively engage in politics, advocate for faith-based policies, and build alliances with like-minded leaders. A key part of her strategy involves media influence, economic empowerment, and religious freedom. “A financially strong church is an influential church,” she stated, stressing the need for Christians to control the narrative in public discourse.
Highlighting the Church’s role in social transformation, Oluwadare referenced international success stories such as GEM Community Ventures in the UK, which won the Gold Star Award for community impact. She called on Christian organizations to leverage government support for youth empowerment, parenting education, and interventions against domestic violence, arguing that faith-based groups must step up where the government has failed.
Beyond activism, she warned against self-righteousness and tribalism, emphasizing that Christian engagement must transcend ethnic and denominational differences. The Church’s role is not just to criticize but to lead by example, she argued, calling for structured engagement through think tanks, pressure groups, and leadership training programs that will prepare believers to govern with integrity.
One of the most urgent issues she addressed was Nigeria’s high level of political illiteracy, particularly among young people. With over 68 million Nigerian youths vulnerable to political exploitation, she lamented that ignorance of governance has contributed to the country’s problems. “If our politics is corrupt, it reflects a corrupt society. National transformation requires a collective effort,” she stated, calling for political education within churches to equip Christians with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions.
Her final words carried a resounding call to action: “The Church is a city on a hill—its light must shine. Nigeria’s future depends on responsible, God-fearing leadership. The time to act is now.”
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