Bishop Joseph Ademola Afolabi, the visionary behind Jesus Cares Crusader Ministries International (JCCMI), has issued a strong warning to Christian leaders throughout Nigeria about the dangers of irresponsibly using their ‘anointed tongues’ to criticize the country’s leadership.
He highlighted that reckless speech has the potential to harm and even dismantle a nation.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Kaduna Global Leadership Conference 2025 on Thursday, Bishop Afolabi underscored the immense influence words carry when spoken by Christian leaders, urging them to harness this power constructively to foster national progress.
In partnership with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), his ministry is organizing this three-day leadership summit in Kaduna.
Addressing attendees, Bishop Afolabi remarked, “We must all take ownership of Nigeria’s current state. Our speech can either uplift or destroy. As leaders, it is imperative that we cease negative rhetoric about our nation and encourage our congregations to follow suit. The tongue wields the power of life and death, as Proverbs 18:21 teaches: ‘Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.'”
He called on Christian leaders to channel their words toward healing and rebuilding the nation, discouraging the spread of stigma and denigration of Nigeria on social media platforms.
“Let us commit to prayer, place our trust in God, and anticipate the nation’s renewal,” he urged.
Bishop Afolabi also emphasized the critical role of vision in leadership, stating, “Vision is a leader’s ally, enabling focus and perseverance.” He cautioned that when leaders lose sight of their goals, their followers become susceptible to negative influences.
On doctrinal issues, the bishop advised vigilance against misconceptions, especially in turbulent times.
“Our attention should remain fixed on eternal verities rather than fleeting concerns. Often, misunderstandings arise from a limited grasp of God’s sovereignty.
When errors occur, humility demands we admit them,” he explained.
Referencing a well-known adage, Bishop Afolabi said, “Those who never err rarely achieve anything meaningful. The true failure lies in refusing to learn from mistakes.” He encouraged participants to reconsider their viewpoints calmly when challenged, noting a troubling shift from spiritual truths to worldly distractions.
The conference served as a platform to realign priorities, with the bishop urging attendees to reject the notion that success is measured solely by wealth. “Endurance requires sacrifice,” he reminded.
He further advised believers to strive for genuine advancement and to distance themselves from corrupt politicians and sinners intent on undermining the nation. “Esteemed men and women of God, what is our shared vision for Nigeria? Are we actively contributing to rebuilding the country for future generations, or are we complicit with those who seek its destruction through misguided beliefs and politics?” he challenged.
Bishop Afolabi condemned certain self-styled human rights advocates who disparage Nigeria’s leadership, labeling them as adversaries misleading the youth.
Concluding his address, he called for patience and attentiveness among church members, noting that even leaders often display impatience during gatherings.
It is noteworthy that Bishop Afolabi previously visited Kaduna last September for a similar event.
