The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has embarked on a pilgrimage to Rome, seeking divine intervention for Nigeria amid its political, social, and economic challenges.
In a statement shared via X, the Anambra-born politician urged Nigerians to remain steadfast, revealing that his visit to Rome was dedicated to “taking Nigeria’s situation to God” through prayers for unity, peace, and responsible leadership.
“With hearts full of gratitude, we thanked God that, despite our differences and the many challenges faced over 65 years of independence, He has kept us together as one nation,” Obi stated.
During the pilgrimage, Obi and his wife visited the four major Papal Basilicas in Rome — St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. John Lateran, and St. Peter’s Basilica — where they prayed alongside other Nigerian pilgrims.
He explained that the journey was part of the Jubilee Year, observed every twenty-five years, which he and his wife chose to mark by dedicating prayers to Nigeria. They sought forgiveness for the country’s “national transgressions” and asked for leaders “whose hearts God would touch — leaders who would be truthful, altruistic, and committed to public service.”
Obi recounted visiting the Holy Doors at the major basilicas, where he prayed for divine mercy upon the nation. At St. Peter’s Basilica, he and his wife attended the Papal General Audience and were received in audience by Pope Leo XIV, to whom they appealed for prayers for Nigeria.
“We prayed that God would open the door of His mercy to Nigeria,” Obi said, describing the pilgrimage as a time of deep spiritual reflection and renewal.
He also met several Nigerian pilgrims in Rome, noting their “quiet hope” for a better nation.
While emphasising the power of faith, Obi urged Nigerians not to rely solely on prayer but to take responsibility for national progress. “Faith does not absolve us of responsibility; it calls us to action,” he said. “As Nigerians, we must each continue to do our part — with honesty, diligence, and love — for the healing and progress of our country.”
He concluded with his trademark optimism: “A new Nigeria is POssible.”