The National Prayer Forum (NPF) has dismissed criticism of its planned seven-day national prayer initiative, saying it’s a non-governmental and non-partisan effort driven by concern for Nigeria’s welfare.
The Forum’s Director General, Chief Segun Balogun Afolorunikan, reiterated the efficacy of prayer in times of challenge.
It said the decision to invite the First Lady and National Security Adviser to lead the initiative was based on their respected positions and not to seek political endorsement.
The Forum further clarified that prayer is not a replacement for hard work or economic solutions but a recognition of the need for divine guidance and unity.
It urged leaders and citizens to set aside divisions and join in prayer for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity, believing that a combination of diligent efforts and prayers can lead to a better future for the nation.
Quoting Afolorunikan, “We find it disheartening that some, rather than appreciating the prayer effort, have chosen to politicize it. In both the Bible and the Quran, there is ample guidance on the efficacy of prayer in times of challenge. The Bible in 2 Chronicles 7:14 states, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.” Similarly, the Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:186) underscores, “And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.” These verses show that prayer serves as a divine support that, when combined with sincere efforts, strengthens a nation’s resolve and direction.
“The choice to ask Her Excellency, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to lead this initiative was made with deep respect for their standing as respected figures in the country. While they were not consulted, we believed their involvement could inspire wider national engagement. We do not expect or require political endorsement; rather, our prayer call is an expression of faith and collective hope for Nigeria’s healing and progress.
“In response to critics, particularly those who question the validity of prayer in these challenging times, we emphasize that divine intervention has always complemented diligent, hands-on efforts. This is neither a replacement for hard work nor a dismissal of economic solutions but a humble recognition that, alongside our efforts, we seek divine guidance and unity.
“While it is the government’s business to engage qualified persons and task them on areas of national need for growth, it is our responsibility as citizens to provide our areas of competence to national challenge h in this case, the spiritual dimension to which we all agree is pivotal to our daily lives.
“We urge leaders and citizens alike to see this initiative as an invitation to rally together and set aside divisions for the greater good. Nigeria’s journey to peace and prosperity requires not only active policymaking but also the heartfelt support of its people, including their prayers. May we all work diligently and pray earnestly for a better Nigeria. In Nigeria’s journey toward peace and prosperity, prayer has served and would continue to serve as a catalyst for change encompassing growth and development.”
