As the Mothers’ Union marks 150 years of Christian service, the President of the Mothers’ Union, Women’s Guild and Girls’ Guild of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Mrs Angela Ndukuba, has challenged Nigerian women to become agents of positive change by promoting electoral integrity, strengthening family values and contributing to national development.
Speaking at the 15th Mothers’ Union Council Meeting and the Union’s 150th anniversary celebration on Wednesday, 16 September 2026, at Obafemi Awolowo Memorial Anglican Church, Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State, Mrs Ndukuba emphasised the responsibility of women in shaping the future of the nation, particularly as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.
In her presidential address, she warned against the temptation to exchange electoral choices for immediate financial or material benefits, stressing that the consequences of such decisions could extend far beyond the election period.
Drawing on the biblical imagery of a “pot of porridge,” she cautioned women against sacrificing the future for temporary gains. She also appealed to mothers to discourage their children from becoming instruments of political violence, noting the dangers associated with political thuggery.
Mrs Ndukuba, wife of the Primate of All Nigeria, the Most Revd Dr Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba, called for a political environment in which the welfare of citizens and national development would take precedence. She urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to discharge its responsibilities with fairness and impartiality, while appealing to the government to provide adequate security and ensure justice throughout the electoral process.
Turning her attention to the prevailing socio-economic challenges, she stressed the need for deliberate government action to improve living conditions. The Mothers’ Union called for policies capable of stimulating employment, strengthening economic opportunities and expanding access to essential social amenities.
The Union also expressed concern over the country’s security situation, advocating a more effective response to violence through improved security strategies, adequate resources for security agencies and the prosecution of those responsible for perpetrating or sponsoring criminal activities.
Another major concern raised was the growing involvement of elderly citizens, including people in their seventies and eighties, in drug trafficking. Describing the situation as disturbing, the Union urged the government, churches and families to strengthen their collective response to drug abuse and other social vices.
Earlier, in her welcome address, the wife of the Bishop of Remo, Mrs Oluwatoyin Fape, reflected on the remarkable journey of the Mothers’ Union over the past 150 years, describing its enduring legacy as evidence of God’s faithfulness.
She observed that Christian motherhood transcends biological responsibilities and encompasses the spiritual nurturing of families, the strengthening of the Church and meaningful contributions to society.
Mrs Fape reminded members that their calling to the priesthood of all believers demands active participation in God’s work, encouraging them to continue demonstrating their faith through service within their homes, the Church and the wider community.
The anniversary celebration also featured goodwill messages from the Chairman of African Newspapers of Nigeria, Ambassador Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu; the Female Church Chiefs of Remo Diocese; and Mrs Oluwatoyin Femi-Adeniyi, who congratulated the Mothers’ Union on the historic milestone and acknowledged its contributions to Christian ministry and society.
