Only God-fearing leaders can transform Nigeria, says Fubara

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara believes Nigeria's path to meaningful development hinges on leaders who possess the fear of God. He articulated this view during a meeting with the World President of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Pastor Erton Kohler, and his delegation at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

Governor Fubara lauded the Seventh-day Adventist Church for its significant investments in education at various levels, highlighting its operation of two universities in Nigeria. He noted that these institutions serve not only to propagate the Christian faith but also to cultivate future leaders. Fubara emphasized that religious engagement should extend beyond defending beliefs to making a tangible positive impact on society, seeing the church's educational initiatives as a testament to its commitment to fostering educated and God-fearing leaders.

“

Our country is where it is today because we lack the fear of God. If you have the fear of God, there should be a limit to what you can do because you understand the supremacy of God. But when God is not in your equation, you’ll go beyond the line, and that is what has brought us to where we are today.

"Our country is where it is today because we lack the fear of God," Fubara stated, explaining that the absence of divine reverence allows individuals in power to transgress limits, leading to the nation's current predicament. He expressed happiness with the church's role in nurturing future leaders, stressing the global need for competent individuals in the right positions.

“

So, I feel very happy that you are contributing to the development of our future leaders in this country. We need the right people in the right place, prepared properly with good minds. That is what we need, not just in Nigeria but around the whole world.

Fubara further asserted that the scarcity of God-fearing individuals in authority contributes to social inequality, poverty, corruption, and criminality. He advocated for a system where quality education and healthcare are accessible, and where citizens feel secure in their future, citing that such security would deter involvement in crime. He noted that the pervasive insecurity about the future fuels many of the social vices observed today.

The governor thanked the delegation for their visit and prayers, pledging his continued support for the church's programs in Rivers State. Pastor Erton Kohler, in turn, shared that his visit was for a church conference empowering ministers. He acknowledged Governor Fubara's warm reception and mentioned the Seventh-day Adventist Church's global presence, with over 24 million members and 182,000 places of worship worldwide.

“

If we have a situation where the little money you’re paid as wages can also afford you quality healthcare and after working for at least 15 to 20 years you have a roof over your head, tell me why you should be involved in any kind of crime? At that point, you’ll feel secure, and this attitude of insecurity about the future that leads to many of the social vices we have today won’t be there.