Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his belief that Nigeria’s economic struggles were never part of God’s plan, citing the nation’s vast natural wealth.
He made this assertion during the 40th anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja, held on Sunday in the nation’s capital.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s abundant resources, Obasanjo called on the country’s leaders to harness these gifts effectively for national development.
“Nigeria has everything it needs to thrive,” Obasanjo remarked, echoing the words of Methodist Prelate, Dr. Oliver Aba, who had earlier emphasized the importance of gratitude to God.
Drawing a parallel with other nations, Obasanjo said, “Just as God blessed Egypt with the Nile, He blessed Nigeria with the Rivers Niger and Benue, crude oil, fertile soil, and other resources.”
He added, “I firmly believe God did not create Nigeria to struggle. We have mismanaged our blessings, but if we turn to God, He can heal our land.”
This isn’t the first time Obasanjo has called attention to Nigeria’s resource mismanagement.
During his tenure as president (1999-2007), he often highlighted the disconnection between Nigeria’s natural wealth and the living standards of its citizens.
His administration was marked by significant reforms in the oil and telecommunications sectors, yet the challenge of translating national wealth into widespread prosperity remains a pressing issue.
President Bola Tinubu, represented at the event by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, commended the Methodist Church for its longstanding contributions to social justice, education, and humanitarian work in Nigeria.
Tinubu praised the church for its 183 years of service in the country and lauded the Abuja Archdiocese’s 40 years of fostering faith and community.
“The Methodist Church has transformed countless lives across Nigeria through its dedication to social justice and education,” Tinubu said.
He also urged the church to continue its role in promoting peace and unity, stressing the importance of collective efforts in overcoming Nigeria’s challenges.
In his message titled “Our Appreciation and Gratitude to God,” Methodist Prelate Dr. Oliver Aba invoked the biblical story of the 10 lepers healed by Jesus, of whom only one returned to give thanks (Luke 17:15-17).
He urged Nigerians to remain calm and hopeful, assuring them that “there’s light at the end of the tunnel” despite the country’s present difficulties.
The event also recognized several prominent figures with the Knights of John Wesley award, including Obasanjo, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, former President Yakubu Gowon, and President Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
Other honourees included former Senate President David Mark, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and others who have made significant contributions to national development.
This celebration comes at a time when Nigeria is grappling with economic hardships and widespread discontent, yet leaders and clergy alike continue to call for prayers, unity, and a renewed commitment to national progress.
NAN
