At Abuja Synod, Archbishop Joshua Robert kneels, appeals for Nnamdi Kanu’s release

The 2026 Charismatic Bishops SYNOD Conference has commenced in Abuja, with church leaders, government officials and other dignitaries gathering to deliberate on national unity, good governance, peace and the role of the Church in nation-building.

The conference, presided over by the National President of the Charismatic Bishops SYNOD, Archbishop Prof. Bature Leonard Karwas, attracted prominent personalities, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Idris Malagi, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, His Excellency George Akume, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Bishops Endorse Tinubu for Second Term
A major highlight of the conference was the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term in office.

Archbishop Karwas, while addressing the gathering, announced the endorsement, citing what he described as the administration’s efforts towards repositioning the country.

The endorsement formed one of the major political highlights of the ongoing Synod, coming as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum.

Archbishop Joshua Robert Appeals for Nnamdi Kanu

The conference also witnessed a passionate appeal for the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.
The appeal was made by Archbishop Prof. Joshua Robert, the South-East Vice President of the Charismatic Bishops SYNOD, after Archbishop Karwas invited vice presidents representing various geopolitical zones to address the gathering.

Before making his appeal, Archbishop Robert commended President Tinubu over what he described as efforts to improve the condition of the country.

He also praised Archbishop Karwas for his leadership and efforts in bringing charismatic bishops together under one umbrella and promoting unity within the body.

Speaking on behalf of the South-East, Archbishop Robert made an emotional appeal to the Synod leadership to convey his request to President Tinubu.

He said: “I want to humbly request, sir, this is from South East, with my knees on the ground that you beg Mr President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that Nnamdi Kanu be released, sir.”

His appeal drew significant attention from participants at the conference and emerged as one of the major moments of the Synod.

Church, National Unity and Governance

The 2026 Charismatic Bishops SYNOD Conference is expected to continue with discussions on national unity, peace, good governance and the contribution of the Church to national development.

The organisers said a communiqué would be issued at the conclusion of the conference, outlining the resolutions and positions reached by the Synod.

The conference is expected to further bring together church leaders and other stakeholders to examine issues affecting Nigeria and the role of religious institutions in promoting peace, unity and development.