General Yakubu Gowon, former Head of State of Nigeria and convener of the national prayer platform “Nigeria Prays,” has voiced deep concern over the escalating crime rate in the country, particularly among the youth. He emphasized the urgent need for continued prayer and intercession for the nation’s challenges during a one-day prayer rally held in Osogbo, Osun State, organized by the South-West Zone of the organization. Established in 1996, “Nigeria Prays” brings together Christians of various denominations to collectively pray for the nation, addressing issues ranging from security concerns to socio-economic problems.
Gowon, addressing the gathering virtually, led prayers against the pervasive insecurity plaguing Nigeria, including kidnappings, murders, banditry, and other criminal activities. He implored divine intervention in the nation’s affairs, seeking an end to the bloodshed and turmoil affecting various parts of the country. Recognizing the multifaceted nature of the challenges, the prayers also addressed political and socioeconomic issues, as well as religious tensions. Gowon appealed for forgiveness for the nation’s transgressions and sought healing for individuals and the collective.
Expressing particular concern over the rising involvement of youth in criminal activities, Gowon’s prayers extended to the nation’s leadership at all levels. He specifically interceded for President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the government and their families. The prayers also encompassed governors and their deputies, national and state legislatures, the judiciary, local government chairmen, and community elders. In the context of the Osogbo gathering, Gowon used Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke as a point of contact to pray for all governors in the South-West region.
The national prayer rally in Osogbo drew a significant number of participants, reflecting a shared concern for the nation’s well-being. Reverend Mike Adebomi, the Osun State Coordinator of “Nigeria Prays,” commended the turnout and urged Nigerians to persist in prayer, acknowledging the multitude of challenges facing the country. He underscored the importance of collective prayer as a means of seeking divine guidance and intervention in addressing the nation’s complex issues.
The “Nigeria Prays” initiative, under the leadership of General Gowon, serves as a platform for unifying Christians across denominations in a concerted effort to uplift the nation through prayer. The organization recognizes the power of collective prayer in fostering peace, unity, and healing within the nation. By bringing together people from diverse backgrounds, “Nigeria Prays” aims to create a spiritual force for positive change and national transformation.
The event underscored the importance of continued prayer and national unity in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria. Gowon’s call for sustained prayer and intercession resonates deeply within a nation grappling with complex issues. The “Nigeria Prays” initiative provides a framework for this collective appeal for divine intervention, fostering hope and encouraging a sense of shared responsibility for the nation’s well-being. The significant participation in the Osogbo rally demonstrates the widespread desire for peace and progress in Nigeria.
