…calls for national unity, responsible leadership, and collective action against insecurity

An American-based Nigerian cleric and Justice of the Peace, Pastor Sola Fabunmi, JP, has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in faith, embrace unity, and support efforts aimed at addressing the nation’s security challenges.

In a statement made available to journalists, Pastor Fabunmi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, noting that the country may be passing through a difficult phase that could ultimately pave the way for significant national transformation.

According to him, history has shown that some major changes occur only once in a decade or even a century, often emerging after periods of great uncertainty and hardship.

“I strongly believe that Nigeria is approaching a significant turning point. There are moments in the history of nations when challenges appear overwhelming and difficulties seem to have reached their peak. However, it is often at such moments that positive transformation begins to emerge. Sometimes, when a situation reaches its lowest point, it naturally starts evolving towards its opposite, which is progress, peace, and prosperity.” He said.

The cleric urged Nigerians not to lose hope but to unite against criminal elements threatening the peace and stability of the country.

He warned against the spread of fake news, misinformation, and unverified reports, stressing that such actions could worsen tensions and undermine efforts to restore security.

“Nigeria belongs to all of us, not to the President alone. The responsibility of building a safer and more prosperous nation rests on every citizen. This is the time for unity, patriotism, and collective responsibility. Let us rise above ethnic, religious, and political divisions and work together for the Nigeria of our dreams. The future of our nation depends on the decisions we make today. Let us make Nigeria the envy of the world.” He stressed.

Pastor Fabunmi advocated a nationwide adoption of the “See Something, Say Something” approach, encouraging citizens to promptly report suspicious activities to relevant authorities. He noted that security agencies alone cannot effectively tackle insecurity without the active support and cooperation of the public.

To the government, the cleric called for increased investment in technology-driven security solutions, including surveillance systems, intelligence gathering, data analytics, and modern communication infrastructure.

He also urged authorities at all levels to strengthen investment in security architecture, improve the welfare of security personnel, and provide them with the modern tools required to combat emerging threats.

Addressing political leaders, Pastor Fabunmi appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, State governors, lawmakers, and other public office holders to remain focused on service and nation-building rather than personal enrichment.

“Our leaders must remember that public office is a sacred trust. Wealth, power, and influence are temporary. No one can eat beyond the capacity of their stomach, and no one takes material possessions to heaven. This is the time for selfless leadership, sacrifice, and genuine commitment to the welfare of the people.” He charged

He also challenged religious leaders across the country to use their platforms to promote peace, national unity, moral values, and responsible citizenship rather than division and unhealthy competition.

The cleric further urged media organisations and journalists to continue performing their constitutional role of holding leaders accountable while also projecting positive stories capable of inspiring hope and confidence in the country.

“The media must continue to report facts and expose wrongdoing where necessary. However, there is also a need to highlight positive developments, innovations, achievements, and success stories that reflect the resilience and greatness of the Nigerian people. We must not allow negative narratives alone to define our nation. The cleric added.

On the issue of kidnapping and violent crimes, Pastor Fabunmi called for stricter enforcement of existing laws and tougher penalties for kidnappers and their accomplices. He maintained that severe consequences for such crimes would serve as a deterrent and help strengthen public confidence in the justice system.

While acknowledging the enormity of the nation’s challenges, Pastor Fabunmi expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its present difficulties through collective effort, visionary leadership, faith in God, and unwavering patriotism.

He urged citizens to remain hopeful, prayerful, vigilant, and committed to building a nation that future generations would be proud to inherit.