..Says, Nigeria Needs Righteous Leaders
By Ajewole Joshua | ABNews | June 30th, 2025
Gbagada, Lagos – June 29, 2025 — Former Minister of Education and renowned public policy advocate, Dr. (Mrs.) Obiageli Ezekwesili, was moved to tears yesterday as she made a passionate plea for upright, transformational leadership in Nigeria, during the 50th birthday celebration of Pastor Tope Adeniyi, the Chief Executive Officer of AXA Mansard Insurance.
The event, held at the RCCG Christ Church on Redemption Crescent in Gbagada, Lagos, drew dignitaries and guests from across sectors—corporate, religious, and political—who gathered to honour Pastor Adeniyi for his exemplary life of faith, service, and professional integrity.
In her heartfelt tribute, Dr. Ezekwesili reflected on the state of the nation, lamenting the scarcity of morally upright individuals willing to take up the task of rebuilding Nigeria. Fighting back tears, she recalled the biblical story of Abraham pleading with God to spare Sodom if even ten righteous people could be found, and likened it to Nigeria’s own dire need for selfless and principled nation-builders.
“God asked if there were even ten righteous people—and none could be found,” she said, her voice quivering. “Today, I weep for Nigeria, because we are in desperate need of such men. Men like Pastor Tope—men who can lead with integrity, discipline, and vision.”
Dr. Ezekwesili, who became a Christian in the 1990s, recounted her early passion for social impact alongside a community of fellow professionals, many of whom are now in influential positions. She described Pastor Tope Adeniyi as a shining example of what it means to combine faith and leadership, and called on the younger generation to rise with similar courage and moral clarity.
“Pastor Tope is not just a successful CEO; he is a man of deep conviction. We need a generation that will rebuild the broken walls of this nation. That will cry for the land, and still believe transformation is possible,” she said, drawing a standing ovation from the audience.
Guests at the event included business leaders, policy experts, clergy, and youth influencers, all of whom paid glowing tributes to Pastor Adeniyi’s life and legacy. The celebrant, visibly touched by the outpouring of love, expressed gratitude for God’s grace over his journey and called for continued prayers for Nigeria’s future.
The atmosphere was filled with reflection and renewed commitment, as speakers echoed the call for values-driven leadership in both public and private spheres.
As the nation faces mounting challenges—from insecurity and economic instability to youth disillusionment—the emotional moment from Dr. Ezekwesili served as a reminder that the journey to national transformation begins with individuals who choose integrity over convenience.
The event was not just a celebration of life, but a rallying cry for hope, values, and the urgent need for upright leaders to arise.
Wao! Happy Golden Jubilee birthday to a phenomenal personality, a passionate minister of the gospel and a youth leader with an enviable reputation . Greater anointing and years of positive impact ahead in Jesus Christ name.
He is really a great man. God bless him more