Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerian leaders to effectively harness the country’s abundant resources for national development. Speaking at the 40th anniversary of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday, Obasanjo emphasized that Nigeria has everything it needs to prosper, but leaders must wisely manage the blessings the nation has been endowed with.
Reflecting on a sermon delivered by the Methodist Prelate, Dr. Oliver Aba, Obasanjo reiterated the importance of appreciating God’s provisions. He pointed out that, like other resource-rich nations, Nigeria is abundantly blessed with natural assets such as the Rivers Niger and Benue, crude oil, and fertile land. Obasanjo compared Nigeria’s resources to Egypt’s River Nile, stressing that Nigeria was not created to struggle and that the country has all it needs to thrive.
“God has equipped Nigeria with everything necessary for growth,” Obasanjo declared. “Just as Egypt has the River Nile, we have our own rivers and a wealth of natural resources. Nigeria was not meant to struggle, and it is our duty to recognize and make good use of these blessings. Many countries lack the resources we take for granted.”
Obasanjo called on leaders, religious figures, and citizens to pray for the nation’s healing, acknowledging that Nigeria’s current struggles are not due to a shortage of resources but rather to poor management. “We have misused the gifts God has given us,” he said. “But if we humble ourselves and seek His guidance, He will heal our land.”
At the event, other Nigerian leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, also emphasized the need for national unity and prosperity. President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, commended the Methodist Church for its contributions to education, social justice, and community service. Tinubu highlighted the church’s role in empowering young people through education and promoting peace and unity through messages of love, reconciliation, and understanding.
“The church’s initiatives in education have empowered generations, providing our youth with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a changing world,” Tinubu’s statement read. “The church has been a key promoter of peace and unity in Nigeria, with its messages fostering dialogue across diverse communities. Your leadership is critical, especially during these challenging times, as we face various difficulties.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to collaborating with faith-based organizations to address the nation’s challenges, saying, “Together, we can mobilize resources, deliver essential services, and advocate for the voiceless. The church plays an important role in offering moral leadership and promoting ethical governance. I urge you to remain committed to praying not only for your communities but also for Nigeria and its leaders.”
The Methodist Church’s Prelate, Dr. Oliver Aba, encouraged Nigerians to remain resilient and work together, stressing that the country’s challenges demand a united front. He noted that Nigeria, given its large population and natural resources, holds a unique position on the world stage.”God holds this nation close to His heart,” Dr. Aba said. “He has blessed us with immense human potential and abundant resources. We have no reason to despair. Nigeria, as a nation, is like a child learning to walk, there are struggles, falls, and challenges until we grow stronger and find our balance. But if we unite in prayer, understanding our common goals, Nigeria will rise to greatness.”
He added that Nigeria’s global significance is recognized by other nations, though Nigerians often underestimate their own potential. However, he expressed optimism about the country’s future, saying, “In due time, God will guide us, and improvements will come. We must all contribute and work together to build Nigeria for future generations.”The Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of faith, resilience, and collective efforts in overcoming the country’s economic challenges. Edun expressed optimism about Nigeria’s economic potential and future growth.
“As we reflect on the Prelate’s message, we recognize this is a time to maintain our faith, resilience, and belief in a better future,” Edun said. “Under the leadership of our president, we must trust that brighter days are ahead. Just as the Methodist Church in Abuja has endured for decades, so too will our nation endure and rise. My prayer is that very soon, we will celebrate not only religious milestones but also the revival of Nigeria’s economy.”
