By MARIE-THERESE NANLONG
The Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) has called on its qualified members to actively participate in politics, stressing the need for principled leadership ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
This formed part of a communiqué issued at the end of the Church’s 73rd General Church Council (GCC) meeting, held from April 21 – 24, 2026, at its international headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.
The communiqué was read by ECWA President, Rev. Job Bagat.
The denomination urged all eligible members to register and participate fully in the electoral process.
It also encouraged those who are “called, gifted, and positioned” to step into partisan politics responsibly.
The church noted that “the absence of principled and value-driven individuals in the political space often creates room for poor governance and leadership deficits.”
While promoting political engagement, the Council emphasised peaceful conduct.
It advised members to act in a “peaceful, lawful, and civil manner” and to avoid actions capable of undermining national unity and stability.
The Council also appealed to electoral institutions to uphold “the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and fairness” in order to strengthen public confidence in electoral outcomes.
Beyond politics, the Council acknowledged the Federal Government’s efforts toward infrastructural development but expressed concern over the deteriorating state of roads nationwide.
It warned that the situation posed serious risks to lives and property and hampers economic productivity.
“The Council called on the Government to accord urgent priority to the comprehensive rehabilitation and sustained maintenance of critical road infrastructure nationwide,” the communiqué stated.
It added that such interventions must be “deliberate, transparent, and consistent.”
The gathering drew delegates from 96 District Church Councils (DCCs) within Nigeria and the diaspora, reflecting what the Council described as the church’s unity and global reach.
Deliberations focused on spiritual growth, governance, mission and national concerns.
During the meeting, elections were conducted in an atmosphere of “prayer, orderliness, and transparency.”
Rev. Chidi Madubuko emerged as Vice-President-elect, succeeding Rev. Sunday Ajise.
Rev. Ayuba Asheshe was returned unopposed for a second term as General Secretary.
In addition, Rev. Ezekiel Omidiji was elected as Trustee representing Zone 9, replacing Rev. James Asonibare, whose tenure had expired.
The Council also approved the creation of new district church councils, bringing the total number to 100, in response to the church’s growing membership.
On capacity development, the Council adopted a “train the trainers” model, centralising training at the headquarters while mandating DCC representatives to cascade knowledge to the grassroots level.
It said this approach would ensure consistency and wider reach.
The Council further commended the Evangelical Missionary Society and ECWA members for their dedication to missionary work, acknowledging their sacrifices and impact.
It concluded by urging members to remain prayerful and discerning as the nation approached a critical political period.