Governor [Seyi Makinde](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seyi_Makinde) declared on Saturday in Abuja that the most pressing issue confronting Nigeria is severe poverty, not sectarian tension, and appealed to Christians to become active participants in the country's political renewal.
Key points:
- The remarks were made after Makinde received a Christian Icon Award at the 50th anniversary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
- He is also the presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).
- Makinde cited the biblical story of David serving under King Saul as a lesson for believers.
- He emphasized that “politics is dirty” should not deter Christians from public service.
- The governor urged the faithful to focus on alleviating poverty rather than allowing religious differences to dictate civic engagement.
What prompted the governor's statement?
Makinde spoke following his recognition at the CAN celebration, using the platform to address the nation’s socio‑economic woes.
Why does he cite biblical figures?
He argued that stories like David’s willingness to serve a non‑believing king illustrate that faith does not preclude working with leaders of different convictions.
What is the core message for Christians?
Makinde urged his co‑religionists to rise, join the national agenda, and help “reset” Nigeria by tackling the grinding poverty that afflicts millions.
“Politics is dirty. I don’t want to be yoked with unbelievers,” he acknowledged, but added that biblical examples compel believers to engage regardless of religious disparity.
The governor concluded that the nation’s priority must be confronting poverty and the immediate challenges facing Nigerians, rather than allowing sectarian concerns to dominate the political discourse.