Anglican Bishop calls for improved rural welfare to stem urban migration

The Bishop of the Anglican Missionary Diocese of Oyo South, the Right Reverend Dr Olufemi Familoni, has urged governments at all levels to prioritise the welfare of rural communities, warning that continued neglect could accelerate rural–urban migration and create serious humanitarian and developmental challenges.

Bishop Familoni made the appeal during a one-day synod of the newly inaugurated diocese, held at the Cathedral Church of St John, Akinmoorin, Oyo State. The synod was themed “Behold, I will do a new thing.”

The bishop, who is the pioneer head of the diocese, noted that the lack of basic social amenities and infrastructure in rural areas often compels residents—especially youths—to relocate to urban centres in search of better living conditions and economic opportunities.

He said such migration undermines productivity in rural communities and slows overall socio-economic growth.

According to him, the diocese is committed to empowering its members and providing sustainable means of livelihood that will enable people to remain productive within their local communities.

He stressed, however, that meaningful progress would require deliberate government intervention through the provision of essential infrastructure and social services.

“The church is doing its part to empower the people, but government support is crucial in creating an enabling environment that will encourage young people to stay back and contribute to grassroots development,” he said.

The synod also witnessed the unveiling of the diocese’s vision and mission statements, its official logo, as well as the appointment of chaplains and other key church officials.

Bishop Familoni explained that the vision of the Anglican Missionary Diocese of Oyo South is to build a Christ-centred, Spirit-filled and mission-driven church focused on gospel proclamation.

He added that the vision would be pursued through evangelism, outreach initiatives, structured liturgical worship, and the empowerment of both clergy and lay ministers.