Forum assures patriotic motives behind seven-day national prayer initiative

The Concerned Religious Prayer Forum has clarified its intentions behind the seven-day national prayer initiative for Nigeria, stating it’s a patriotic effort to promote peace, unity, and prosperity.

It noted that as a non-governmental organisation registered since January 9, 2024, the forum operates independently, driven by concern for the nation’s welfare, without government endorsement or direction.

In a statement by its Director General, Segun Afolorunikan, the Forum expressed concern that its good intentions have been politicised, stressing that prayer serves as divine support that strengthens a nation’s resolve and direction when combined with sincere efforts.

Afolorunikan tasked leaders and citizens to see the initiative as an invitation to rally together, setting aside divisions for the greater good and recognising prayer as a catalyst for change and growth in Nigeria’s journey to peace and prosperity.

“We find it disheartening that some, rather than appreciating the prayer effort, have chosen to politicise it. In both the Bible and the Quran, there is ample guidance on the efficacy of prayer in times of challenge. The Bible in 2 Chronicles 7:14 states, ‘If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.

“Similarly, the Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:186) underscores, ‘And when My servants ask you concerning Me, indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me.’

“These verses show that prayer serves as a divine support that, when combined with sincere efforts, strengthens a nation’s resolve and direction.

“The choice to ask Her Excellency, the First Lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to lead this initiative was made with deep respect for their standing as respected figures in the country. While they were not consulted, we believed their involvement could inspire wider national engagement. We do not expect or require political endorsement; rather, our prayer call is an expression of faith and collective hope for Nigeria’s healing and progress.

“In response to critics, particularly those who question the validity of prayer in these challenging times, we emphasise that divine intervention has always complemented diligent, hands-on efforts. This is neither a replacement for hard work nor a dismissal of economic solutions but a humble recognition that, alongside our efforts, we seek divine guidance and unity.

“While it is government business to engage qualified persons and task them on areas of national need for growths, it is our responsibility as citizens to provide our areas of competence to national challenge h in this case, the spiritual dimension to which we all agree is pivotal to our daily lives,” the Director General said.