In response to the ongoing economic hardship faced by Nigerians, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu have announced plans to lead a national prayer session, aiming to unite the country in a collective appeal for divine intervention.
As prices surge, jobs become scarcer, and the effects of inflation continue to impact households, this unprecedented gathering of faith leaders, government officials, and citizens across the nation highlights the gravity of the current crisis.
Nigeria has been grappling with severe economic challenges over recent months, with inflation rates soaring above 24% — one of the highest in recent history. Food, fuel, and essential goods have seen dramatic price hikes, making everyday life increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian. The devaluation of the naira and the reduction in fuel subsidies have intensified the strain on the population, while many businesses are struggling to keep their doors open amid escalating operational costs.
This economic hardship has not only impacted Nigerians financially but has also created widespread psychological strain.
Reports indicate a significant increase in mental health issues related to economic anxiety, as families struggle to cover basic needs and many young people face bleak employment prospects. Rising poverty levels, paired with diminished purchasing power, have made even daily necessities hard to afford, leading to a pressing sense of urgency within communities nationwide.
The prayer session, announced by First Lady Tinubu and supported by top government figures, is scheduled to take place in Abuja and will also be streamed live to allow for maximum participation. Religious leaders from various faith backgrounds will lead prayers focusing on peace, stability, and economic recovery, appealing for divine intervention to alleviate the plight of citizens.
According to sources close to the organizers, the session will include a call for solidarity and resilience, as well as an appeal to policymakers to work diligently toward sustainable economic reforms.
By bringing Nigerians together in a spiritual context, the government hopes to bolster a sense of national unity during one of the country’s most challenging times. The event has sparked mixed reactions, with some citizens expressing hope for spiritual respite, while others call for more tangible measures to address the root causes of economic distress. The government, however, assures the public that ongoing reforms are aimed at long-term stability, urging patience as the country navigates this complex path to recovery.
