Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has identified widespread poverty as Nigeria's most pressing challenge, arguing that religious differences should not prevent citizens from participating in politics and contributing to national development.
Makinde made the remarks on Saturday, October 17, 2026, in Abuja, shortly after receiving the Christian Icon Award at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). The governor, who is also the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) for the 2027 general election, urged Christians to become more actively involved in political affairs rather than withdraw because of concerns about the conduct of politicians or differences in religious beliefs.
“Our problem is not primarily a religious one. Our problem in this country is poverty — grinding poverty,” Makinde declared.
The governor said Nigerians should concentrate on addressing the economic difficulties confronting the country, stressing that religious considerations must not distract attention from challenges affecting citizens' living conditions.
Speaking about Christian participation in politics, Makinde criticised the belief that political engagement should be avoided because politics is considered dirty or because Christians may have to work alongside leaders who do not share their faith.
He argued that such reservations should not prevent people with the capacity to contribute to governance from participating in political processes. According to him, national transformation requires citizens to engage with the institutions responsible for making decisions that affect their communities.
Makinde drew on biblical accounts to support his position, particularly the story of David, who continued to serve in King Saul's palace despite having already been anointed as a future king.
The governor said the example demonstrated that serving under a leader with different convictions should not automatically prevent an individual from carrying out responsibilities or pursuing a broader purpose.
He consequently encouraged Christians across Nigeria to participate in efforts aimed at improving the country's political and economic circumstances.
“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.
Makinde also expressed appreciation to the Christian Association of Nigeria for recognising him during its golden jubilee celebration. He described the honour as an opportunity to encourage greater involvement in public affairs and national development.
The anniversary event brought together political leaders, religious figures and other dignitaries recognised by CAN for their contributions to public service and Christianity.
Among those honoured were First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State Yakubu Gowon and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.
Makinde's remarks come as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general election, in which he is contesting the presidency under the APM platform. His comments also follow recent statements in which he criticised the impact of economic hardship on Nigerian households and called for government policies to be assessed by their effects on citizens' welfare.
The governor's central argument at Saturday's event was that political participation and attention to economic conditions should take priority over religious divisions in discussions about Nigeria's future.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments