Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called on religious leaders to prioritize prayers and counsel for governments instead of issuing curses and criticisms.
Speaking at the opening of the four-day International Conference of the African Biblical Leadership Initiative (ABLI) in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized the need for a constructive and supportive approach toward leadership.
Tinubu, represented by Princess Gloria Akobundu, the National Coordinator and CEO of New Partnership for Africa’s Development, urged religious leaders to promote peace and development.
“To our spiritual fathers, I urge you to build and foster peace and Development as well as to pray for the government,” she said. “Let us not curse, insult and castigate the government. Rather, speak the truth to the leaders and conscience of our citizens.”
The First Lady cautioned against attempting to take the place of God, reminding the audience that God could use anyone to fulfill His purpose.
“Let us not equate ourselves to God, nor take His place, knowing fully well that God can use anybody to achieve his purpose and fulfill His agenda here on earth,” she said.
Africa, according to Tinubu, is at a critical juncture, facing numerous challenges that demand effective leadership. She reiterated the importance of a value-based leadership model that reflects Christ’s teachings.
“As Christian leaders, we must embrace a value-based leadership model that reflects the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. This model must be built on justice, integrity, wisdom and social harmony,” she said.
The conference, themed “Value-based Leadership Model for Africa,” brought together various African and European leaders, as well as global Christian figures.
In his address, Daniel Okoh, President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), highlighted the importance of leadership that embodies integrity and service.
“I want to emphasize that leadership is not merely a position of authority but a calling to serve integrity and purpose,” he stated.
Okoh stressed the need for leaders to embody biblical values, particularly in times of crisis, as the continent faces significant challenges including economic uncertainty, insecurity, social injustices, and conflicts.
“Our leadership must be grounded in love and unity. As we strive to uplift our communities and nations, we must commit ourselves to the principles in the scripture, which is centered on what is noble and pure,” Okoh concluded.
The conference has thus set the stage for deeper conversations around leadership and moral guidance for Africa, with calls for stronger, value-driven governance across the continent.