Nigeria @ 65: Nigerians deserve better than peanuts from politicians – Cleric

As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary, the Lead cleric of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, has lamented infrastructural deficit in the country amid the nation’s great potential.

Achudume, in a statement by the church’s media department on Wednesday, urged leaders to empathise with the everyday hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians, stressing the need for governance that resonates with citizens’ realities.

The cleric noted, “At 65, Nigeria stands as a nation of immense potential – yet the dividends of freedom seem elusive for many ordinary Nigerians,” he observed.

He said there was a spark the contrast between Nigerians’ impactful presence globally and the domestic challenges in the country.

Achudume stated, “You find Nigerians excelling abroad in fields like medicine, tech, and education – showcasing their capabilities. But back home, we grapple with leadership gaps and infrastructural deficits holding us back.”

He commended the Federal Government’s Student Loan Scheme as a positive stride towards boosting educational access.

“The Federal Government’s student loan initiative is a right step that will go a long way in supporting education,” he said, adding that such programmes should not be politicised 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,” Achudume cautioned.

He also criticised the prevalent practice of vote-buying during elections, involving handouts like indomie and petty gifts.

“Nigerians deserve better than peanuts from politicians during elections – we need leaders who genuinely understand the common man’s hardships,” Apostle Achudume emphasised.

According to him, Nigeria requires environments nurturing business growth, innovation, and intellectual pursuits.

“For Nigeria to realize her giant potential, we need leadership attuned to citizens’ needs and ecosystems that empower talent,” he noted.

He called for transformative leadership focusing on grassroots realities.

“Leadership feeling the pulse of ordinary Nigerians is crucial if we’re to match Nigeria’s global footprint with domestic progress,” Achudume said.