Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on Nigerian leaders to make effective use of the country’s abundant resources for national development. Speaking at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday, Obasanjo stressed that Nigeria has all it needs to prosper but must manage its blessings wisely.
Reflecting on the message delivered by the Methodist Prelate, Dr. Oliver Aba, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of recognizing and appreciating God’s provisions. He emphasized that, like other nations endowed with natural resources, Nigeria is richly blessed with assets such as the Rivers Niger and Benue, crude oil, and fertile soil.
“God has equipped Nigeria with everything necessary for growth,” Obasanjo said. “Just as Egypt has the River Nile, we have our own rivers and a wealth of natural resources. Nigeria was not created to struggle, and it’s our responsibility to recognize and utilize these blessings. Many nations lack the resources we take for granted.”
He urged leaders, religious figures, and citizens to pray for Nigeria’s healing, acknowledging that the nation’s current challenges are not due to a lack of resources but poor management. “We have misused the gifts God has given us,” Obasanjo stated, “but if we humble ourselves and seek His guidance, He will heal our land.”
Other Nigerian leaders present at the event, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu joined Obasanjo in promoting unity and prosperity. President Tinubu, represented by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, praised the Methodist Church’s contributions to education, social justice, and community outreach. He urged the church to remain steadfast in its commitment to prayer and service.
He said, “The church’s initiatives in education have empowered generations, equipping our youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. It has been instrumental in promoting peace and unity in our nation, with messages of love, reconciliation, and understanding fostering dialogue among diverse communities. Your leadership is crucial, especially in challenging times, as we face multifaceted difficulties.
“The government recognizes the importance of collaboration with faith-based organizations to address these issues. Together, we can mobilize resources, provide essential services, and advocate for the voiceless. The church can offer moral leadership and ethical governance. I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to prayer, not just for your communities but for Nigeria and its leaders.”
The Methodist Church’s Prelate, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, encouraged Nigerians to persevere and work together, noting that the country’s challenges require a united front. Nigeria, he emphasized, holds a significant place on the world map due to its large population.
According to him, “God holds this nation close to His heart, which is why He has blessed us with human potential and abundant natural resources. We have no reason to complain. Nigeria, as a nation, is like a baby learning to crawl. A child struggles to grow, standing and falling until their bones and systems are strong and aligned. When we join hands and pray for one another, understanding our shared goals, Nigeria will rise to greatness.
Our country holds a significant place on the world map due to our large population. Nations around the globe believe in us, yet we often undermine ourselves in small ways. However, in the near future, God will guide us, and things will begin to improve. We must all contribute; we must work together to ensure that Nigeria is built properly for future generations.”
Minister of Finance Wale Edun highlighted the importance of faith, resilience, and collective action in overcoming Nigeria’s challenges. He expressed optimism about the country’s economic future, citing its potential for growth.
Edun said, “As we consider what our prelate preached, we see that this is a time, just as the Methodist Church in Abuja has endured over the years. Under our president, this is a time to maintain our faith, belief, and resilience, knowing that better days are ahead. The light, as preached by His Eminence, is at the end of the tunnel. As we celebrate today, I congratulate us all, and my prayer is that very soon we will be celebrating in other dimensions, including the turnaround of the Nigerian economy.”
