Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu has urged religious leaders to focus on praying for government success instead of cursing them.

The First lady stated this at the opening ceremony of a four-day International Conference of the African Biblical Leadership Initiative scheduled to be held in Abuja.

Remi Tinubu, who was represented by the National Coordinator and Chief Executive Officer of New Partnership for Africa’s Development, Princess Gloria Akobundu, said there are numerous challenges plaguing today’s leadership, especially in Africa.

She urged religious leaders to preach peace and follow in the footsteps of Christ by praying for leaders in power to succeed instead of abusing them.

She said:

“To our spiritual fathers, I urge you to build and foster peace and Development as well as to pray for the government. Let us not curse, insult and castigate the government. Rather, speak the truth to the leaders and conscience of our citizens.

“Let us not equate ourselves to God, nor take His place, knowing fully well that God can use anybody to achieve his purpose and fulfil His agenda here on earth. Africa is at a crossroads, facing numerous challenges that require effective leadership.

“As Christian leaders, we must embrace a value-based leadership model that reflects the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ. This model must be built on justice, integrity, wisdom and social harmony.”