The presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Seyi Makinde has identified grinding poverty, rather than religious differences, as Nigeria’s major problem, urging Christians to actively participate in efforts to transform the country.
Makinde spoke on Saturday while receiving Faith Award from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
The Oyo State Governor called on Christians across the country to move beyond the perception that politics is dirty and take an active role in national development, stressing the need to confront the socioeconomic challenges facing the nation.
“Our problem is not primarily a religious one. Our problem in this country is poverty — grinding poverty,” he said.
The presidential candidate argued that Nigeria’s current challenges required collective action, urging citizens to focus on addressing the issues affecting their lives rather than allowing religious considerations to discourage participation in governance.
He also challenged Christians who avoid politics on the grounds that they do not want to associate with “unbelievers,” insisting that biblical examples demonstrate the importance of engaging with leadership and public service.
Citing the example of David, who served King Saul despite having already been anointed to succeed him, Makinde said Christians should be willing to serve and contribute to national transformation, regardless of the circumstances.
“David had already been anointed and knew that he would become king. Yet, he went to the palace to serve Saul, from whom God had already departed,” he said.
He urged Christians to draw lessons from the biblical account and become more involved in the process of rebuilding the country.
“I will use this opportunity to encourage our Christian brothers and sisters across the country to rise up and participate in the agenda to transform Nigeria and reset our country,” he said.
He maintained that Nigeria’s pressing problems demanded practical solutions, adding that tackling poverty and other challenges confronting the country should take priority.
“At this stage, we must focus on addressing the issues currently confronting us. Those are the challenges we need to tackle,” he said.
Other prominent Nigerians who were similarly honoured by CAN during the were former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon; former President Olusegun Obasanjo; former President Goodluck Jonathan; and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
The awards conferred on the four former leaders were however received on their behalf by their representatives.
