The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has issued a direct challenge to the Federal Government, urging them to seek international support if they are incapable of stemming the relentless tide of killings, kidnappings, and violence sweeping the country.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, November 9, during the consecration of fifteen bishops-elect, Primate Ndukuba stressed that Nigeria’s security crisis has reached a breaking point that demands immediate action.
The Primate’s remarks come just days after U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Christianity in Nigeria faces an existential threat. Ndukuba affirmed this concern, stating, “The persecution of Christians and the violence going on in this land are not what anybody can deny.” He voiced deep worry that clergymen continue to be abducted, noting: “As I’m talking to you now, we have some of our pastors who are kidnapped with their families taken from their church and they have not been released… and if our authority, the government, cannot handle it, it is good for them to seek help.”
Primate Ndukuba also addressed the rising moral decline among young Nigerians, stressing that their character is critical to the nation’s future success.
He urged parents to instill discipline and godliness, affirming his belief that the youth have the intelligence and creativity needed to surpass their current challenges.
The Anglican Church is responding through active engagement: “We continue to pray for them, we will continue to invest in them and nurture them, and that is why we have the mission to the youth, which we call the Joshua generation.” The Primate expressed confidence that these youths, if properly guided, would remain resilient and “conquer their promised land.”
Addressing the newly consecrated bishops, Ndukuba called on them to commit to patience, sacrifice, and dedication, noting that the calling requires “dying to self” and being “ready to suffer.” He offered a prayer that they would be guided to “feed the flock, teach the world and proclaim the gospel boldly and soundly and faithfully throughout the world.”
