The body of Christ has been called upon to remain steadfast in calling, continue to speak the truth to power, defend the oppressed, uphold righteousness, inspire hope, as well as rise up to meet the challenges of the present age with courage and faith.

The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, made the call at the 6th National Biennial Conference of The African Church, tagged 'Egba 2026', with the theme: "At All Times: The Voice of an Unsilenced Church", held at the Cathedral, Idi-Ape, Abeokuta.

Represented by the Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the Governor said the unsilenced Church is not merely one that speaks loudly, but one that lives truthfully, and whose voice is reflected in its actions, such as in justice, compassion, and service to humanity, hence, Christians must not only proclaim faith but demonstrate transformed living.

"This transformation must be evident not just within the walls of the Church, but in every sphere of human endeavour", he urged.

According to the Governor, the Conference provides a vital platform for reflection, renewal, and purposeful dialogue on the growth of the Christian faith and its role in shaping our society and added that the theme is a clarion call to the Church not to retreat in the face of adversity, but to rise with courage, conviction, and clarity in proclaiming righteousness at all times.

He said since government alone cannot achieve sustainable development, there must be synergy between governance and religious institutions, and called on the Church, as a moral compass, to continue to play its indispensable role of shaping values, promoting ethical conducts, and fostering social cohesion, as "Together, we must harness our collective influence to drive socio-economic transformation and uplift our communities", gov Abiodun said.

He assured that his Administration remains steadfast in the implementation of “Building Our Future Together” Agenda, which is anchored on the belief that true development must reflect the holistic well-being of the people spiritually, socially, and economically. 

"We have made significant investments in education to nurture young minds, strengthened our healthcare system to ensure accessible and quality care, expanded rural development initiatives to bridge infrastructural gaps, empowered the youth through skills and entrepreneurship programmes, and embarked on extensive infrastructural renewal to drive economic growth. These efforts are not merely policy decisions, they are reflections of commitment to build a just, inclusive, and prosperous society", he said.

While appreciating the Primate and President of the Conference, His Eminence, Augustine Afolabi Odufuwa, for his exemplary leadership, spiritual guidance, and unwavering commitment to the growth of the Church, the organisers and all contributors whose sacrifices and dedication have made the gathering a reality, Gov. Abiodun urged all to reflect Christ in daily lives, conduct, leadership, and service to others, as well as uphold righteousness even when it is inconvenient, and stand firm in truth even when it is unpopular, as the Church must continue to shine as a beacon of hope, truth, and moral direction in the country.

Earlier in a sermon, the Primate and President of the Conference, His Eminence, Augustine Afolabi Odufuwa, said Christians are living in times when the voices of truth, righteousness, conviction and holiness are growing weak, which must not be, as the Church of God is the voice of God, thus, nobody should silence it. 

He said the Church may be challenged, pressured or opposed but it must not be silenced, but must speak out, especially when an anomaly is observed in the society, the voice of truth must not be quiet.

"As church members, you must return home with a renewed mind not to keep quiet anytime you see anything wrong in the society. You are to speak the mind of the Church against evil things within the society and the Church itself. You must be bold enough to speak out without minding who to correct, but must be done in love and not to castigate, as you are the ambassadors of Christ anywhere you find yourselves", he charged.

Highlights of the Conference included thanksgiving, awards to deserving members of the Church both living and dead, including the Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Dr Adewale Tejuoso and the consecration of a Bishop.