The President of Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International (JPEMI), Dr. Femi Lanre-Oke, has called on Nigerians to embrace genuine love, community vigilance and collective responsibility as vital steps toward addressing the nation’s persistent insecurity.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, the cleric said tackling kidnapping, banditry and other security challenges requires not only government intervention but also the active participation of citizens.
According to Lanre-Oke, security should not be left solely in the hands of security agencies, as they cannot be present in every community at all times.
He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, promptly report suspicious activities and work together with law enforcement agencies to build safer communities. He also sympathised with families of kidnapping victims and prayed for the safe return of those still in captivity.
The cleric further encouraged governments at all levels to adopt more strategic measures to combat insecurity, expressing support for the establishment of state police as a way to strengthen internal security.
“I appreciate what the government and security agencies are doing, but they need to do more. Citizens must also play their part to ensure a safer society,” he said.
Addressing concerns that Christian leaders have remained silent on national issues, Pastor Lanre-Oke maintained that many church leaders continue to engage government through prayer, dialogue and peaceful advocacy, even when such efforts are not always visible to the public.
He noted that organisations such as the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) have consistently organised prayer meetings, fasting programmes and advocacy initiatives focused on Nigeria’s peace and development.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the cleric urged politicians to prioritise national interest above personal ambition, stressing that leadership rooted in love and selflessness would foster peace and sustainable development.
He also encouraged Nigerians to reject electoral violence and support credible electoral reforms, including wider adoption of electronic voting to improve transparency.
Beyond security, Lanre-Oke called for stronger support for local farmers to improve food security and acknowledged the current economic hardship facing many Nigerians. He encouraged citizens to remain hopeful while trusting God through difficult times, adding that the Church has a role in equipping believers with biblical wisdom for financial stewardship and resilience.
The cleric’s message echoes the teaching of Romans 12:18: “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Christians are called not only to pray for peace but also to become active peacemakers by showing love, promoting unity and working with others to safeguard their communities.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity, the Church’s call remains clear: prayer must be accompanied by practical acts of love, vigilance and responsible citizenship.
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