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The Labour Party's presidential candidate for the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has emphasized the importance of the church in imparting positive values to society in order to foster a better Nigeria.
In a message posted on his verified X account on Wednesday, Obi remarked that Nigeria is grappling with alarming levels of a lack of values, moral decline, increasing lawlessness, and a waning sense of accountability.
He pointed out that these challenges persist not due to a lack of knowledge, but rather because the nation's foundational values are crumbling. He lamented that shortcuts are celebrated, dishonesty is rewarded, and integrity is often overlooked.
The former governor of Anambra State asserted that as the moral compass of society, the Church must take the lead in the urgent mission of restoring values through intentional and practical initiatives such as skills training, youth mentorship, sustainable community projects, and ongoing engagement.
He further stated that the Church has the potential to convert faith into opportunities that uplift communities, asserting that such initiatives would assist young people in rediscovering discipline, hard work, and the understanding that character, rather than corruption, is the true foundation for progress.
“Upon my return from abroad yesterday, I attended the Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod, where I spoke on 'The Role of the Church in Youth Empowerment and Community Development.' I stressed that the Church needs to transition from the pulpit to the people by adopting a more practical role in rebuilding societal values, empowering our youth, and reinforcing community structures. Our nation cannot advance while moral decay and a diminishing sense of responsibility continue to proliferate unchecked.
“In today’s society, shortcuts are celebrated, dishonesty is rewarded, and integrity is often overlooked. This erosion of ethical standards is increasingly evident, even among the highly educated, including professors.
“If we aspire to create a nation where integrity is honored and responsibility is valued, the Church and other serious religious organizations must take the lead in fostering ethical behavior and enhancing societal character.
By transitioning from the pulpit to the people, the Church can inspire a new generation and play a crucial role in Nigeria’s moral, ethical, and social rejuvenation,” he tweeted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Peter Obi's message to the Church?
Peter Obi urges the Church to take an active role in restoring societal values through community engagement, youth empowerment, and practical initiatives.
What challenges does Nigeria face according to Obi?
Obi identifies alarming levels of moral decay, a lack of values, rising lawlessness, and a declining sense of responsibility as significant challenges facing Nigeria.
How does Obi propose the Church can contribute to society?
Obi suggests that the Church can contribute by leading initiatives in skills training, youth mentorship, and community projects to instill discipline and integrity among young people.
