…Urges hope amid rising moral crisis
Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that Nigeria is facing a dangerous moral and social decline, but maintained that the country will eventually overcome its current hardship through focused leadership, prayers, and collective commitment.
Jonathan stated this yesterday at the opening session of the Thirteenth Anglican Synod in Abuja, where he painted a grim picture of a society increasingly troubled by violence, insecurity, and the erosion of values, particularly among young people.
Addressing church leaders, bishops, clergy, and delegates, the former president said the growing disregard for human life and morality reflects the urgent need for stronger intervention from religious institutions.
According to him, the church remains one of the few institutions still holding the nation together at a time when many citizens are losing faith in public systems and leadership.
“I always feel that if religious leaders had not been praying seriously for this country, probably it would have been worse than what we are seeing today,” Jonathan said.
He lamented the increasing normalisation of violence in society, recalling how campuses and communities were once safer during his younger years, blaming worsening social values and negative influences amplified through social media and technology.
Jonathan noted that although digital platforms offer opportunities for learning and innovation, many young people are increasingly exposed to harmful and destructive content. “The decadence in society is so high that the church has to double its efforts through prayers and conduct for us to build a normal society for our children”, he added.
Despite the challenges, the former president expressed confidence that Nigeria’s situation was not beyond redemption, insisting that many countries currently regarded as developed nations also passed through painful historical phases before stabilising.
He maintained that Nigeria would eventually overcome its present difficulties if leaders, citizens, and religious institutions continue working together for national renewal. “God will not abandon Nigeria”, Jonathan declared.
