In a powerful New Year address, the Bishop of Lagos for the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Gabriel Okupevi, has issued a clarion call to all Nigerians. He urged citizens and leaders alike to actively assume responsibility for the nation's peace, progress, and security as 2026 begins.
A Call for Collective Vigilance and Responsibility
Delivering his message in Lagos on January 1, 2026, Bishop Okupevi emphasized that security is a shared concern. He encouraged every citizen to be vigilant and steadfast within their own communities and spheres of influence. The Bishop advocated for cultivating a proactive culture where 'when we see something, we say something', making communal safety a daily priority.
He framed the new year, 2026, as 'Our Year of Kingdom, Expectation and Preparation'. Okupevi drew from scripture, stating, "Therefore stay awake, for you do not know when the Master of the house will come." He explained this as a call to both spiritual and practical readiness, urging Nigerians to align their lives with divine purpose and strengthen their devotion.
Leaders Challenged to Prioritize Nation Over Self
The Bishop directed a significant portion of his message to leaders at every level of Nigerian society. He charged them to consistently do what is right and speak the truth, while clothing themselves in integrity, justice, and compassion.
Okupevi made a strong appeal for leadership that is people-driven rather than self-driven. He urged those in authority to seek the nation's welfare above personal interests, always remembering that "Nigeria belongs to everyone of us." He called for a committed effort towards rebuilding, reforming, and restoring the country.
Entering 2026 with Faith and Hope
Reflecting on the passing year, the Bishop expressed profound gratitude to God for guiding the nation through 2025, which he termed the 'Year of God’s Presence and Great Courage'. He acknowledged God's sustenance through challenges and celebrated the achievements recorded by individuals, families, and the nation.
Looking forward, Rt. Rev. Okupevi called on Nigerians to enter 2026 with renewed faith and unwavering hope. He assured the populace that God has great plans for His children but concurrently calls for deep spirituality, good morality, and readiness.
His final exhortation was a multi-faceted charge to the citizenry: to continue praying for Nigeria, speak positively, work diligently, and uphold values that honour God. He reiterated the need for constant vigilance, framing it as a sacred and civic duty for the year ahead.
