Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed confidence that Nigeria’s challenges are not insurmountable, asserting that God did not create the country to be a failure.
He made this statement during a special Commendation Service at the Methodist Church in Abuja, which was held to celebrate the church’s 40th anniversary. During the event, former Military Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon (rtd), was honored with the Knight of John Wesley award.
Speaking with journalists at the service, Obasanjo lamented that Nigeria has squandered the opportunities given by God due to greed and selfishness.
“God is a God of peace; that is the first thing we have to understand. If you go back to Genesis, everything that God created was good. So, what made it bad? Human greed, selfishness, lack of fear for God, and lack of consideration for others,” Obasanjo said.
He added, “I believe that God has not created Nigeria as a basket case. God has given us all we need, but we have messed it up. If we call on God’s name, go humbly before Him, show genuine remorse, and pray, He will heal our land.”
Also speaking at the event, President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, urged the church to partner with the government to address the pressing challenges facing the country.
President Tinubu emphasized the critical role of the church in providing moral leadership and supporting efforts to uplift the nation.
“As we face multi-faceted challenges, the church must urgently continue playing its vital role. The government recognises the importance of collaborations with faith-based organisations in addressing these. Together we can mobilise resources, provide extension services, and advocate for the voiceless,” Tinubu said.
He further stressed the need for unity in addressing the country’s problems, stating that the church can serve as a platform for social transformation, promoting peace and positive change.
“The church can also spearhead moral leadership and ethical governance. I urge you therefore to remain steadfast in your commitment to prayer, not just for your communities but for our beloved Nigeria and its leaders. Your prayers are a source of strength and guidance as we navigate the complexities of governance.”
In his sermon, the Prelate of the Methodist Church in Nigeria, Most Reverend Oliver Abah, encouraged Nigerians to remain calm and steadfast, expressing hope that the nation will eventually overcome its current challenges.
