Hardship: Deliver Solutions Now, Not Speeches – PFN to Tinubu

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) Urges Swift Action from Tinubu Administration to Avert National Crisis

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has raised concerns over the worsening socio-economic and security challenges facing the country, warning that without urgent and deliberate intervention, Nigeria risks an avoidable implosion.

In a call to action, the Christian body urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to demonstrate a stronger commitment to effectively implementing the policies and reforms promised by his administration.

The appeal came at the conclusion of a four-day special retreat held in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State, where PFN leaders convened to deliberate on national issues and the state of the church. The fellowship underscored that Nigeria’s current situation demands more than rhetoric—it requires immediate, measurable actions to restore stability and public trust.

Addressing journalists after the retreat, PFN National Secretary, Bishop David Bakare, emphasized the critical need for divine intervention alongside purposeful governance. “Our view in PFN is that Nigeria desperately needs the hand of God. As a spiritual body, we are unwavering in our commitment to pray for the nation and its leaders. But prayer must be accompanied by decisive, responsible leadership,” he said.

Bishop Bakare, who also leads Jesus is Life World Outreach Ministries (JAWOM) in Zaria, Kaduna State, acknowledged that while past and current governments have made attempts to address national issues, significant challenges persist.

“Nigeria belongs to God, and we continue to ask for His guidance. But it is also vital that our leaders receive not just the wisdom to act, but the capacity and courage to execute those actions,” he stated.

He commended some of the initiatives recently introduced by the Tinubu administration, such as the approval of forest guards and the planned deployment of technology for enhanced border security. However, he stressed that the success of such measures depends on visible follow-through and tangible results.

“These are commendable steps in the right direction,” Bakare noted, “but they must not remain mere announcements. Nigerians need to see action—only then will public confidence be restored and the path to economic recovery opened.”

The cleric also called for a strategic and balanced approach to governance, urging the federal government to employ a mix of dialogue and firm action, particularly in addressing issues of unemployment and insecurity. He warned that the lack of job opportunities continues to drive vulnerable youths into criminal activities.

“When people are productively engaged, the lure of criminality diminishes. The government must invest in job-creating initiatives as proof of its commitment. As a church, we will support such efforts with prayers, believing that this will lead to a better Nigeria,” he affirmed.

Bishop Bakare further explained that the Uyo retreat was organized to align the national leadership of the PFN with the President’s vision, foster unity within the fellowship, and seek divine direction for Nigeria’s future.

“The retreat provided a platform to consolidate our leadership structure, reinforce our shared goals, and contribute meaningfully to national development. It was also a time for spiritual reflection and intercession for the nation, the Church, and our host state,” he explained.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who participated in the retreat on Wednesday, lauded PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, for his wise and constructive engagement with government authorities. He described Bishop Oke’s leadership style as principled yet non-confrontational.

The governor also appealed for continued prayers and support from the Christian community for his administration’s efforts in governing Akwa Ibom.

Special prayers were offered during the retreat for Nigeria, the PFN leadership, and the people and government of Akwa Ibom State.