In a powerful reflection on Nigeria’s current state, former President Olusegun Obasanjo lamented that despite being blessed with abundant resources, the nation has squandered God’s gifts.
Speaking at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday, Obasanjo passionately emphasised that Nigeria was never meant to struggle.
He expressed deep disappointment in how the country’s leadership had failed to harness its wealth for national development.
According to Obasanjo, God endowed Nigeria with everything necessary for prosperity, yet mismanagement has led to untold hardship for the people.
“We have all we need to thrive,” Obasanjo stressed, echoing the message of Methodist Prelate Dr Oliver Aba, who had highlighted the importance of appreciating God’s blessings.
“As God created other nations and equipped them with resources, He equally blessed Nigeria. Just as Egypt has the River Nile, Nigeria has the Rivers Niger and Benue, along with crude oil, fertile land, and an abundance of natural resources.
“I firmly believe God did not create this country to struggle,” Obasanjo declared.
“We have been given everything by the Almighty, but it is up to us to recognise and appreciate these gifts, especially when so many nations are not as fortunate as we are.”
In a fervent call to action, Obasanjo urged Nigerian leaders, clergy, and citizens to seek divine guidance and healing for the country, acknowledging that the nation’s plight is not the fault of God but rather a result of human mismanagement.
We have squandered the gifts He gave us, but if we humble ourselves and turn to Him, I am confident He will heal our land.”
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, also attended the event, praising the Methodist Church Nigeria for its unwavering commitment to social justice, education, and humanitarian outreach.
In his goodwill message, Tinubu celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Abuja Archdiocese and commended the Church’s role in Nigeria’s development.
“I commend the Methodist Church Nigeria for its pioneering work and dedication to social justice, education, and humanitarian efforts, which have touched countless lives across the nation,” Tinubu said.
The Church’s contributions to peace and unity cannot be overstated, and I urge you to continue your tireless work for the betterment of our country.”
The Methodist Prelate, Dr Oliver Aba, in his sermon titled “Our Appreciation and Gratitude to God,” urged the congregation to remain thankful despite the nation’s challenges. He cited the biblical story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus, with only one returning to express gratitude, drawing a parallel to the need for Nigeria to remain hopeful and appreciative.
“Even in these difficult times, we must remember to give thanks to God,” Aba emphasised.
“Nigeria, calm down; there is light at the end of the tunnel. We have a promised land to look forward to.”
The celebration also saw several distinguished individuals honoured with the prestigious Knights of John Wesley award, recognising their contributions to society.
Among the honourees were Obasanjo himself, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, President Tinubu and his wife Senator Oluremi Tinubu, former President Goodluck Jonathan, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Other notable recipients included former Senate President David Mark, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and several others, further marking the occasion as a gathering of some of Nigeria’s most influential figures.