Archbishop Opoko Felicitates with Nigeria at 65, Calls for Justice, Equity, and National Renewal

By The Revd Uruakpa Onyemaechi Charles | Living Spring Media Correspondent

Umuahia, Abia State – The Archbishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Archdiocese of Umuahia, His Grace, The Most Revd Dr. Chibuzo Raphael Opoko, TFSG, DOB, JP, has sent a heartfelt felicitation to Nigeria on the occasion of her 65th Independence Anniversary, urging the nation to embrace peace, justice, and true progress.

In his goodwill message, Archbishop Opoko reflected on Nigeria’s journey since independence, acknowledging the resilience of her people while highlighting urgent areas that require national attention.

He called for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, describing it as a necessary step toward healing wounds, ending prolonged agitations, and ensuring freedom from colonial-style oppression. “True independence must reflect freedom, fairness, and unity,” he noted.

The Archbishop prayed for Nigeria to overcome her current economic woes and rise into a new era of economic prosperity, where citizens can enjoy dignity, opportunity, and security.

He further appealed for peace, harmony, and religious tolerance across the country, stressing that a united Nigeria must be built on mutual respect and understanding among its diverse ethnic and religious communities.

In his message, Archbishop Opoko also called for justice and equity, particularly through stronger federal presence in Abia State. He specifically urged the Federal Government to establish a Federal University in Abia and to upgrade the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, into a Federal University Teaching Hospital.

“Independence at 65 must inspire a new national vision,” he declared. “Nigeria can only take her rightful place in the comity of nations when justice, equity, and development are guaranteed for all.”

Archbishop Opoko concluded with prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government, Abia State leadership, and the Nigerian people, urging everyone to work together to build a peaceful, prosperous, and inclusive Nigeria.