Resources: We’ve squandered God’s gifts – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged leaders, the clergy and citizens to pray for the country’s healing, acknowledging that Nigeria’s current situation isn’t God’s fault.

“We’ve squandered God’s gifts, but if we humble ourselves and seek Him, He will heal our land,” he said this yesterday during the 40th anniversary celebration church service of the Abuja archdiocese of the Methodist Church held at the Methodist Cathedral of Unity, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja.

Obasanjo called on Nigerian leaders to judiciously use the country’s abundant resources to develop the nation.

He emphasised that Nigeria has all it needs to thrive.

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Obasanjo echoed the sentiments of Methodist Prelate Dr Oliver Aba’s message, emphasising the importance of appreciating God’s blessings.

“As God created other nations, endowing them with resources, he similarly blessed Nigeria with numerous resources for growth.

“Just as Egypt has the River Nile, Nigeria has the Rivers Niger and Benue, plus crude oil, fertile soil, and other natural resources.

“I firmly believe God didn’t create Nigeria to struggle. He has given us everything we need; it’s our duty to appreciate Him, especially since many countries lack what Nigeria has.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, asked the Methodist Church in Nigeria to remain steadfast in prayers for their communities, the nation and its leaders.

President Tinubu said, “I urge you  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”.

The president also called on the church to continue its work of service, outreach and mission of compassion and to work hand in hand with the government, following the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda, to help create a Nigeria that will meet the collective aspirations of the citizenry.

According to him, the challenges confronting Nigeria today require a united front, saying, “Today, I call upon you to continue your service, outreach, and compassion mission. The challenges we face as a nation require a united front. Your church can be a platform for social transformation, where individuals come together to enact change, promote peace and uplift the people.

“By working hand in hand with the government and embracing the tenets of the Renewed Hope Agenda, we can create a Nigeria that reflects our collective aspirations.”

Speaking on the church’s activities in its 182 years of existence in Nigeria, President Tinubu said it had been instrumental in promoting peace and unity in the country through its messages promoting love, reconciliation and understanding.

Also speaking in a similar vein were former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former Senate President David Mark and Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun.

In his message, the Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, His Eminence Oliver Ali Aba, sought support for the government, saying that the challenges currently being experienced will soon be a thing of the past.