Pastor Ben Eragbai, the General Overseer of Divine Appointment Ministry International, has issued a stark warning, stating that the pervasive insecurity in Nigeria is not only a direct threat to citizens but is also crippling the nation's economy and sowing deep fear across the country.
A Nation Living in Daily Anxiety
The cleric delivered this urgent message during a praise and thanksgiving service held at the church's headquarters in Ajah, Lagos, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. This annual event is organized to appreciate God for His mercy and grace throughout the year.
Pastor Eragbai painted a grim picture of the current reality, stating that Nigerians now live with daily anxiety whether they are on highways, farms, or even in places of worship. He listed the diverse threats facing the nation, which include terrorism, banditry, mass kidnappings, farmer-herder clashes, and the persistent Boko Haram insurgency.
Personal Tragedy and Economic Paralysis
To underscore the human cost, the pastor shared a heartbreaking personal experience. He revealed that one of his employees was forced to flee his home state after his parents were killed in a violent attack. "He is a talented boy whose tomorrow was cut short," Eragbai said, explaining how he took the young man in, discovered his intelligence, and enrolled him in a computer school to prevent him from becoming another destitute in society.
Beyond the personal tragedies, Eragbai highlighted the severe macroeconomic consequences. He asserted that persistent insecurity has crippled the economy and discouraged both local and foreign investors. He issued a dire prediction, warning that if urgent steps are not taken, the situation could push millions of Nigerians into severe hunger by 2026.
Call for Sustained Action and Empowerment
While expressing confidence that the security measures being implemented by President Bola Tinubu's administration are "100 per cent right" and would yield positive results, the pastor called for sustained efforts. He urged the president to continue the proactive approach of tackling criminals in their hideouts and not to relent in the mission to return the nation to peace and prosperity.
Pastor Eragbai offered specific advice to the presidency:
- Build stronger intelligence networks.
- Improve community relations to help track fleeing terrorists and bandits.
- Dismantle criminal networks to restore lasting peace.
He also emphasized the need for a clear vision to help people work and earn a living, stressing that support should go beyond temporary food aid to include training and sustainable empowerment programs. He cited his ministry's work in training widows and supporting their children's education up to tertiary level as a model.
Concluding with a message of faith, Pastor Eragbai prophesied the defeat of the wicked and urged Nigerians to embrace God, pray ceaselessly, and allow God to fight their battles. During the church event, practical support was also provided as items including rice, groundnut oil, and garri were distributed to elderly persons.
