From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Christian leaders to prioritise preaching the true gospel over “mere messages” and to live as “watchmen” ready for Christ’s return, as Nigeria’s current administration works to rebuild the nation’s foundation.

In a statement signed by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady, speaking during a courtesy visit by the Global Executive Chairman of the Lausanne Movement, Michael Oh, and his team at her office, stressed the role of faith communities in supporting President Bola Tinubu’s vision. “As the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu works to rebuild Nigeria’s foundation for future generations of Nigerians, people of faith have been urged to play their part and support the good cause,” she stated.

The First Lady stressed the urgency for Christians to embody their faith actively. “We as Christian leaders and followers should be watchmen, living our lives in readiness of the coming of Christ and we the church teaching younger generations virtues.” She drew parallels to her husband’s governance, noting, “The President is focused on laying a strong foundation for the country, and when the foundation is strong, those coming after will only need to build on it. This is just like what we met when he was Governor of Lagos State and the story is different today in the state. This task will be much easier with more religious understanding.”

Oh, whose Lausanne Movement was established in 1974 by renowned evangelist Billy Graham to unite Christians for world evangelisation, praised Mrs Tinubu’s influence. “There is only 1% of us Christians in the world who are evangelists, preachers but the real gospel will be preached by the remaining 99% in the marketplace, in politics, in homes by our way of life and conduct. We see you, your Excellency already doing that.”

Describing her as “the Esther of her generation,” Oh commended her leadership and urged humility in service. “Christians should lead with humility, service and love.” He added, “Africa is the future of global evangelism and indeed, next leader of global Christianity.”

The meeting concluded with prayers for the First Lady and for peace across Nigeria.