The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Lagos West, is set to hold its 2025 Annual Synod from Friday, May 16 to Sunday, May 18 at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Idimu, Lagos.
According to a Thursday statement, the three-day gathering will commence with both the Ministerial and Lay Sessions on Friday, while the formal opening ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 17.
The Lay President of the Archdiocese of Lagos Mainland, Sir Olusola Adu, is expected to officially declare the Synod open.
The programme will conclude with a thanksgiving service on Sunday, May 18, during the 10:00 a.m. worship service.
Speaking ahead of the event, the Diocesan Bishop, Rt. Revd. Ezekiel Akande, said this year’s synod would be distinct, with a strong focus on evangelism and spiritual development across the diocese.
“This year’s deliberation will be unique in all ramifications,” Bishop Akande said. “Both the ministerial and lay leaders of the diocese will focus more on the evangelism aspect of our doctrine as Methodists, towards the growth and development of all the unit churches that make up the diocese.”
He continued, “Our discussions will revolve around how we can give our diocese the spiritual upliftment it needs through effective evangelism in and around the communities where our churches are located. More importantly, we aim to galvanize our young members toward building their spiritual future.”
The synod will bring together leaders from the diocese’s federating circuits—Palm Avenue, Odi-Olowo, Oke-Afa, and host circuit Idimu—to review past activities and chart a course for the future.
In his remarks, the Diocesan Lay President, Sir Gbenga Akindele, described the Synod as a vital platform for reflection and growth.
“All is actually set to host both our invited guests and all the delegates from the federating circuits,” Akindele said. “We will fellowship together while plotting the direction for the future growth of the diocese.”
Highlighting the significance of this year’s edition, he added, “As my very first synod since I was elected as the Diocesan Lay President, I look forward to great sessions during the three days of fruitful deliberations.”
The Synod is expected to attract prominent dignitaries within and beyond the Methodist community, including the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali-Aba.
Bishop Akande also emphasised the Synod’s broader vision of social responsibility and interfaith harmony.
“We have challenged ourselves to take a position on how best we can add value to our immediate societies,” he said. “We are bringing this to the front burner at this year’s Synod and praying for peace and togetherness among nations all over the world.”
