Nigeria @65: Achudume admits politicisation killing Nigeria’s giant status
The lead Cleric of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, has expressed concern about Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges on the country’s 65th independence anniversary. Speaking to journalists in Abeokuta, Apostle Achudume said: “We have achieved a lot. I think what we have got more is just the independent certificate. It is a day of liberty, less to show that we are free or independent from our colonial master.”
Achudume stated, “If at sixty-five we still struggle with basic amenities like good roads, access to clean water, reliable electricity, and funding for entrepreneurs to thrive – it shows a disconnect between Nigeria’s potential and realities.” The global spiritual leader remarked, “It is like our nation’s resources are cornered by a privileged few in the political class, while the vast majority of Nigerians endure hardship. The average human being is not enjoying the common wealth.”
Speaking on the electoral practices, he criticized the distribution of hand-outs like packets of indomie noodles, sugar and garri during elections. “Nigeria should stop taking these crumbs from politicians,” he urged. “Nigerians have come a long way, and they deserve better treatment than peanuts from politicians during electioneering campaigns.”
Reiterating that the time has come for the giant of Africa to live up to expectations with her status, Achudume called for leaders who understand ordinary Nigerians’ struggles.
“We need grassroots leaders who feel the struggles of the common man, who know what it means to be hungry, to struggle paying school fees,” he said.
However, Achudume has commended the Federal Government for the Student Loan Scheme intended for university students, describing it as a positive development that will go a long way in supporting education.
“The Federal Government’s student loan initiative is a right step,” he noted, adding such initiatives should not be politicized or hijacked by politicians.
“Often, when governments send money or empowerment support meant for market women and other beneficiaries, it doesn’t get to them because of politicization,” he warned.
He emphasized Nigeria needs environments where businesses flourish and intellectuals thrive.
“At 65, Nigeria has come a long way – and it should be better,” Achudume remarked.
According Achudume, Nigerians are one of the most intelligent people on earth, making significant impacts globally in sectors like health, education, and technology – yet domestically, the nation struggles to match this excellence.
“You find Nigerians excelling everywhere abroad, often among the best … but back home, leadership has failed to create the enabling environment for them to thrive like they do globally,” he stated.
