Senior Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre, Sam Adeyemi, has called for urgent national conversations on insecurity and the future of Nigeria, following the continued abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in the country.
In a message posted on his X account on Friday, Adeyemi expressed deep concern over the plight of 46 children and their teachers who remain in captivity, revealing that one of the abducted teachers had already died.
“The trauma that Nigerians continue to endure is profound. Currently, 46 children and their teachers remain in the hands of their kidnappers, with one teacher already dead,” he wrote.
The cleric described the situation as heartbreaking, noting that the suffering of the victims and the emotional burden on their families were unimaginable.
“The unimaginable plight of these individuals is a source of extreme distress for their families,” he added.
Adeyemi urged Nigerians, particularly members of the elite class, to prioritise a national dialogue aimed at addressing the country’s deepening challenges and building a more inclusive and economically advanced nation.
According to him, true leadership lies in confronting the nation’s realities rather than waiting for a “saviour” to emerge.
“As citizens, our priority should be to demand this national discussion. This is a true demonstration of leadership, rather than waiting for a saviour,” he stated.
He further charged leaders and stakeholders to see the country’s present difficulties as an opportunity to rebuild Nigeria into a nation that works for all citizens regardless of ethnic, religious or social differences.
“The elite class has a responsibility to convene this dialogue and envision an economically advanced Nigeria that embraces our diversity and values,” Adeyemi said.
The cleric maintained that the country could no longer continue on its current trajectory, expressing optimism that collective action and divine help could steer Nigeria towards a better future.
“Continuing on our current path is not an option. We must view our challenges as unprecedented opportunities to build a new nation that works for everyone. Together, we can achieve this, God helping us,” he concluded.
