Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has again lamented Nigeria’s parlous situation, saying the nation has squandered God’s gifts.
Obasanjo stated this at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday. He contended that Nigeria was never meant to struggle.
“We have all we need to thrive as a nation,” the former military head of state before becoming a civilian president stressed.
Continuing, Obasanjo said “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.
“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.”
Obasanjo then 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 the direct consequences of poor leadership and mismanagement by the human elements.
“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,” Obasanjo added.
President Bola Tinubu was represented at the event by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
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, former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, 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.
