Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has emphasised the urgent need for the Church to help restore core values that can rebuild Nigeria.
In a statement shared on his verified X handle on Wednesday, Obi lamented the growing moral decay in the country, citing rising valuelessness, increasing rascality, and a declining sense of responsibility among citizens.
He noted that Nigeria’s challenges persist not because of a lack of knowledge, but because societal values have collapsed. According to him, shortcuts are now glorified, dishonesty is rewarded, and integrity is treated as irrelevant.
Obi called on the Church, describing it as the moral compass of society, to play a more active and practical role in leading Nigeria’s value restoration. He urged faith leaders to implement hands-on initiatives such as skills development, youth mentorship, community-based projects, and continuous engagement with young people.
He stressed that through such efforts, the Church can turn faith into opportunities that uplift communities and help young people rediscover discipline, hard work, and the understanding that character, not corruption, drives true progress.
“Upon my return from overseas yesterday, I attended the Fourth Enugu Diocesan Synod, where I spoke on ‘The Role of the Church in Youth Empowerment and Community Development.’
“I emphasised that the Church needs to move from pulpit to people by taking a more practical role in rebuilding societal values, empowering our youths, and strengthening community structures,” he wrote.
Obi said Nigeria cannot advance while moral decline continues unchecked, warning that even among highly educated citizens, including professors, ethical standards are gradually eroding.
He reiterated that if Nigeria is to build a society where integrity is rewarded and responsibility upheld, the Church and other credible religious institutions must lead the charge in shaping moral behaviour and societal character.
“By moving from the pulpit to the people, the Church can inspire a new generation and play a decisive role in Nigeria’s values, morals, and social renewal,” he added.