By Dr. Patrick Akhere
Nigeria is passing through one of the most challenging periods in its history. And as a country this is not the first time and it has always overcome as it will soon do with the current challenges. From insecurity and growing uncertainty, many citizens have difficult questions about her future. Communities are apprehensive. Families are worried. Citizens are distraught. It’s about about their safety. Businesses are struggling to stay afloat.
In moments like these, leadership is not only about policies and projects. It is also about inspiring confidence, strengthening faith, and reminding people that difficult seasons do not last forever. Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo captured this succinctly when this Sunday he visited LoveWorld City (Christ Embassy) in Benin City and called on Nigerians to pray for the nation. As has become characteristic of his messages on such occasions, this was straightforward and powerful: Nigeria does not belong to kidnappers, criminals, or those who profit from fear.
The Governor’s statement resonates because it speaks to a reality confronting many communities all over Nigeria today. Kidnapping has become a major security concern. Criminal activities continue to threaten livelihoods and create anxiety among citizens. Yet the Governor’s response was not one of despair. Instead, he called for greater faith, collective prayers and collective action.
For Governor Okpebholo, prayer is not an alternative to governance. It is a source of strength for governance. All over time, nations have often turned to faith during periods of crisis. Nigeria should not be an exception- Prayer provides hope when circumstances appear overwhelming. It strengthens resilience, promotes unity, and encourages people to believe that positive change is possible.
However, at the same time, prayer must be accompanied by action. This is the principle guiding Governor Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, which since he took office focuses on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education. Across Edo State, road construction projects, healthcare initiatives, educational investments, and security interventions are ongoing efforts aimed at improving the quality of life of citizens.
And as the Governor has repeatedly emphasised, development is not measured only by physical infrastructure but also reflected in the peace, stability, and confidence enjoyed by the people. This is what explains the governor continued exhortation, encouraging citizens to pray for the nation, the state, and its leaders and beyond religious affiliations.
Recall earlier this year, during the simultaneous observance of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season, Governor Okpebholo urged Muslims and Christians to use the sacred period to pray for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and prosperity. The message reflected the spirit of religious harmony that has remained one of Edo State’s strengths.
At a time when divisions often dominate public discourse, such calls for unity deserve attention. The challenges facing Nigeria do not discriminate on the basis of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation. Likewise, the responsibility of rebuilding the nation belongs to everyone.
The recently declared 14-day period of prayer and fasting in Edo State also reflects this understanding. It is a call for spiritual reflection and renewed commitment to the values that strengthen society—peace, integrity, compassion, discipline, and service.
It is in this light that the Governor’s Sunday request for prayers for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is equally significant. Regardless of political differences, national progress requires leaders at all levels to succeed in delivering security, economic stability, and development. Praying for wisdom, guidance, and strength for those entrusted with leadership responsibilities is ultimately a prayer for the nation’s future.
What stands out about Governor Okpebholo’s message is its balance. While emphasising the power of prayer, he continues to pursue practical solutions to the challenges facing Edo State. His administration recognises that faith and hard work are not opposing forces; they are complementary pillars of progress.
As Edo people participate in this season of prayer and fasting, the expectation should not be that challenges will disappear overnight. Rather, it should be that citizens become more united, communities become more vigilant, leaders become more accountable, and society becomes more determined to reject criminality and embrace development.
Nigeria’s future will not be determined by kidnappers or criminals. It will be shaped by the collective resolve of citizens who refuse to surrender hope, who believe in the power of unity, and who remain committed to building a better society. This is the message Governor Okpebholo continues to advance.
It is a message of faith. It is a message of responsibility. Above all, it is a message of hope that Nigeria can overcome its challenges and emerge stronger, safer, and more prosperous.
– Dr. Ebojele has his PhD in Public Administration and is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo
