In a recent address, Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo called on churches in Nigeria to reconsider their priorities, moving away from the emphasis on accumulating wealth and prosperity towards promoting peace, productivity, and community development.
During his speech at the 68th Anniversary and 58th Annual Convention of The Gospel Faith Mission International in Abuja, Osinbajo noted that the prevailing focus on material wealth by some religious leaders has led to alienation, especially among the youth, who are seeking more meaningful messages from the pulpit.
He emphasized that churches have strayed from their essential purpose of advocating for peace, unity, and societal advancement, and must redirect their message towards values such as hard work, compassion, and community engagement.
Osinbajo expressed, “For the rejuvenation of Nigeria, the church needs to reorient its emphasis towards inspiring individuals to be drivers of positive change, rather than passive recipients of the prosperity gospel.”
Highlighting the profound impact of gospel teachings in developing countries, Osinbajo referenced the progress of European and American nations, where principles like hard work, productivity, and integrity instilled through religious teachings facilitated national growth.
He further added, “For an upliftment of our nation, the church must retrace its steps, advocating for the values of hard work, compassion, and community service. Through this shift in focus, we can motivate our populace to be catalysts for positive transformations, instead of just followers of the prosperity gospel.”
Osinbajo stressed on the crucial role of Christians and the church in propagating the authentic gospel of Jesus Christ, underscoring its transformative influence on other countries across the globe.
He concluded by pointing out that the remarkable advancements witnessed in nations like Europe and America were the direct results of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the virtues of hard work, productivity, integrity, and care for the underprivileged preached within their congregations.