Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerian leaders to make effective use of the nation’s plentiful resources to foster development during a speech at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja. He attested to Nigeria’s abundant natural gifts, stressing that the country possesses all the elements necessary for prosperity. Obasanjo drew a parallel between Nigeria and other nations endowed with vital resources, citing Egypt’s River Nile and Nigeria’s Rivers Niger and Benue, alongside crude oil and fertile land. He asserted that God intended for Nigeria to thrive and emphasized that the responsibility lies with its leaders and citizens to recognize and utilize these gifts.
During the event, Obasanjo reiterated a call for humility and spiritual intervention, highlighting the current struggles of the nation as the result of human mismanagement rather than divine failure. He conveyed that the degradation of God’s gifts could be remedied through sincere repentance and a collective desire for divine healing. By invoking spiritual reflection, the former president urged both leaders and everyday citizens to engage in prayer for the nation, reinforcing that God is willing to heal if people earnestly seek His help. This notion was set against a backdrop of Nigeria’s complex challenges, which he insisted require both acknowledgment of their source and a search for spiritual solutions.
President Bola Tinubu, represented at the event by Mr. Nyesom Wike, praised the Methodist Church Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and humanitarian outreach throughout its history. In congratulating the church on its 40th anniversary in Abuja and 183 years in Nigeria, Tinubu emphasized the enduring spirit of faith and community demonstrated by the Methodist Archdiocese. He recognized the church’s meaningful contributions to national development and transformation of lives, affirming that such efforts align with broader objectives to bring unity and peace within the country.
Tinubu also highlighted the increasingly essential role of such organizations in addressing pressing national issues. He called upon church leaders, community members, and fellow citizens to remain steadfast in their commitment to compassion and collective action, encouraging united efforts to tackle the country’s difficulties. By promoting social justice and educational initiatives, he asserted that the church could help foster a better society. Tinubu’s remarks reflected a deep appreciation for the Methodist Church’s historical significance and its continuing mission for community service and support.
The Methodist Church Prelate Dr. Oliver Aba delivered a compelling message during the anniversary, focusing on gratitude and the importance of recognizing divine blessings amidst adversity. He invoked biblical references, specifically the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, to underline that acknowledging God’s goodness is essential for healing. Aba urged attendees to remain calm and exhibit faith in the face of Nigeria’s ongoing crises, affirming that hope still exists for a brighter future. His message served as a reminder to find solace and strength in faith while confronting the nation’s multifaceted challenges.
The anniversary event also featured the acknowledgment of distinguished individuals through the Knights of John Wesley award, which honored figures such as Obasanjo, former leaders like Yakubu Gowon and Goodluck Jonathan, and current officials including Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi Tinubu. The recognition of these notable figures highlighted their contributions to the nation and emphasized the need for leaders to uphold the values of service and commitment to the betterment of society. Overall, the occasion encapsulated the intertwined themes of faith, leadership, and the potential for Nigeria to harness its divine resources for collective advancement and healing.
