Cleric Urges Nigerians to Reject Envy and Recommit to Nation Building

Abel Amadi, General Superintendent of Assemblies of God Church, Nigeria, has urged citizens to promote Nigeria’s strengths and avoid what he described as a damaging “pull-him-down-syndrome” against successful people.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service in Imo State, Amadi said envy, public smear campaigns and character attacks weaken national morale and discourage private citizens from supporting social development.

He gave the charge at Noah’s Ark, Assemblies of God Church, Ogbor Uvuru in Aboh Mbaise Council Area, during activities marking the 60th birthday of Success Obioma Akagburuonye. The cleric said Nigerians should deepen their commitment to rebuilding the country and remain hopeful that current economic pressure will ease.

Amadi said people blessed with resources should be encouraged to invest in communities rather than pushed back by suspicion or hostility. He described Akagburuonye as one of those using personal means to support vulnerable people, and said such interventions should be recognised as part of nation building.

The cleric also called for a values-based public culture anchored on prayer, responsibility and service. He said the country can move into stronger growth if citizens and leaders align action with integrity.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, in his tribute, commended Akagburuonye for resilience, faith and commitment to lifting others. Former President Goodluck Jonathan also congratulated the celebrant and praised his social impact.

Jonathan said: “He rose through determination, self-discipline and faith in God and his journey to success should be a lesson to all of us. He believes in the fear of God and human dignity and has contributed alot to infrastructural development, housing expansion and over 1,000 people have benefitted from his philanthropic scholarship, Housing and clean water”.

He added that Akagburuonye’s record reflects courage and transformational leadership, and also congratulated the celebrant’s mother on reaching 105 years.

Imo State Deputy Governor Chinyere Ekomaru, who represented Governor Hope Uzodinma, described Akagburuonye as a patriot and legal professional with strong humanitarian commitment. She said his support for causes that improve lives has remained consistent.

Ekomaru said: “His passion for what he believes is good for humanity is enormous and strong and I will do all I can to add steam and dignity to this. Since you were able to attract two former presidents to witness this epoch-making ceremony, by the special grace of God, we will be here again to celebrate your 105 years of birth,” she said.

The event blended faith, civic reflection and public recognition, with speakers repeatedly urging Nigerians to choose social progress over rivalry and to strengthen the country through practical service.