Abuja: The President of Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International (JPEMI), Dr. Femi Lanre-Oke, emphasizes that love, active community involvement, and the effective implementation of government policies are crucial to tackling security and socio-economic issues. Lanre-Oke shared these insights during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, addressing topics such as national security, governance, economic challenges, church ministry, and global affairs.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Lanre-Oke expressed concern over the increasing abductions nationwide, calling them unfortunate, and urged Nigerians to support government and security agency efforts. He stressed the importance of community vigilance and reporting suspicious activities, noting that security cannot be the sole responsibility of the government and law enforcement, as they cannot be omnipresent.
The cleric extended his sympathies to families of abducted victims, praying for their safe return, and urged all levels
of government to adopt more strategic measures to combat insecurity. He supported the establishment of state police, suggesting it could significantly enhance internal security. While acknowledging current government efforts, Lanre-Oke insisted that citizens must also contribute to creating a safer society.
Addressing claims that Christian leaders have remained silent on national issues due to their perceived closeness to the government, Lanre-Oke clarified that many religious leaders engage with the government through prayers, dialogue, and other non-public channels. He highlighted that organizations like the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) consistently organize fasting, prayers, and peaceful advocacy on national issues, stressing that not all religious interventions must be publicized.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Lanre-Oke advised politicians to prioritize national interests over personal ambitions, advocating for the biblical principle of loving one’s neighbor. He linked self-cen
tered leadership to insecurity and other societal problems, suggesting that genuine concern for others would foster peace and national development. He expressed optimism for peaceful elections and called for broader use of electronic voting to reduce electoral malpractice, urging politicians to allow free choice without intimidation.
Commenting on corruption, Lanre-Oke pointed out that Nigeria’s struggle lies not in the absence of laws, but in their poor implementation. He emphasized the need for decisive action against corruption through effective law enforcement to achieve sustainable development. He praised the Federal Government’s recruitment of forest guards to combat forest crime, describing it as a positive step that, if well executed, would yield beneficial results.
Lanre-Oke also urged the government to bolster support for local farmers by improving access to seedlings and other agricultural inputs, which would enhance food security and boost the economy. He acknowledged the current economic hardsh
ip but urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, expressing confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms would yield positive outcomes. The church, he added, is aiding members in adapting through teachings on wisdom, financial management, and faith during tough times.
On the international front, Lanre-Oke condemned xenophobic attacks against foreigners in South Africa, urging the nation to adopt peaceful coexistence, as South Africans also reside globally. He called for an end to the conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, advocating for peace.