Apostle Titilope Oluwadare, leader of a Nigerian Christian pressure group, Nigeria National Christian Coalition (NNCC), has warned that when just men remain silent, unjust men will rule and oppress the people. Speaking at a recent press briefing, she emphasized the urgent need for Christians to actively participate in politics and governance, reaffirming NNCC’s commitment to empowering the Church in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Oluwadare cited the rise of Christian political activism in the United States, particularly Donald Trump’s election, as a wake-up call for African Christians. “When people of faith remain passive, their values are pushed to the margins,” she warned. Referencing an opinion piece in the London Guardian, she pointed out how cultural shifts in America spurred Christian engagement, a lesson she believes is crucial for Nigeria.
Outlining NNCC’s mission, Oluwadare stated, “We are a new generation of Christ’s disciples—praying, seeking God’s face, and equipping our people for leadership.” She highlighted the coalition’s growing influence in shaping national discourse and ensuring Christian voices are heard.
Reflecting on her journey, she shared how her background in political science and public administration, coupled with 35 years in the banking sector, has prepared her for this mission. “For years, I ministered about God, but He has now expanded my vision—to teach people what He says about their place in society.” She likened her calling to that of Moses, saying some are chosen to witness the struggles of God’s people so they can lead them to freedom.
Oluwadare traced historical Christian-led movements, from 18th-century France to the abolitionist movements in the UK and America, asserting that secularism has sought to remove God from governance. “It is time for the Church to reclaim its place,” she declared, calling for an ideological revolution where Christian values shape Africa’s policies and governance.
She presented a seven-point action plan, urging Christians to engage politically, advocate for faith-based policies, and build alliances with like-minded leaders. She stressed the importance of media influence, economic empowerment, and religious freedom. “A financially strong church is an influential church. We must control the narrative and ensure truth and integrity in public discourse,” she stated.
Addressing societal transformation, Oluwadare called for structured Christian engagement through think tanks, pressure groups, and leadership training programs. She warned against self-righteousness and tribalism, urging unity beyond ethnic and religious divides.
She also emphasized the Church’s role in social transformation, referencing GEM Community Ventures in the UK, which won the Gold Star Award for community impact. She called for Christian organizations to leverage government support for youth empowerment, parenting education, and domestic violence interventions.
Concluding her address, Oluwadare stressed the urgent need for political literacy, noting that Nigeria’s political illiteracy has left over 68 million young people vulnerable to exploitation. “If our politics is corrupt, it reflects a corrupt society. National transformation requires a collective effort,” she asserted.
With a final call to action, she urged Christians to take responsibility and champion a moral and political renaissance in Nigeria. “The Church is a city on a hill—its light must shine. Nigeria’s future depends on responsible, God-fearing leadership. The time to act is now.”
