Nigeria's Nation Building: 'We Need A Nehemiah In Nigeria' - Osinbajo

Nigeria's Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo, has said that for the nation to advance, it would need a "Nehemiah".

Osinbajo made this remark via proxy, at an interdenominational Christian service held at the National Ecumenical Centre, marking Nigeria's Independence anniversary.

The VP made reference to the biblical character that serves as a metaphor for nation building.

Osinbajo was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha.

The VP said, “The story should be a challenge to every Christian in Nigeria. It’s only that kind of Nehemiah’s love that will make us, as Nigerians, to rebuild the cracks we have in our walls today.

“For us in Nigeria, Nehemiah should be taken as a metaphor for those Nigerians who either reside in Nigeria or outside, to cry to God to use the abandoned opportunities in Nigeria to address our challenges of nation building.

“Fortunately for us, our walls are not yet broken but there are obvious cracks that could lead to a break if not properly addressed.

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“Nehemiah started with fervent prayers, seeking the face of God and pleaded with his king to allow him return to Jerusalem to rebuild the broken walls because wall signifies peace, security, contentment and prosperity. It signifies the essence of the state of the nation.

“There’s an urgent need for a Nehemiah in our country, Nigeria, today. And like Nehemiah faced opposition in his efforts to rebuild the walls, any Nigerian that desires to rebuild Nigeria must also be ready to face stiffer opposition which will come in torrents. It can only be diffused by consistent focus and prayers.”

Also present at the service were the President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan; House of Representatives Speaker, Femi Gbajabiamila; among other top government officials and diplomats.