In a powerful New Year's address, a prominent Nigerian academic and cleric has called on citizens to cast aside fear and place their unwavering trust in divine providence for the year 2026.
A Message of Hope for a Challenging Time
Pastor Samuel Olatunji, who serves as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council at Trinity University in Yaba, Lagos, delivered this message of hope. Speaking to journalists on 1 January 2026, during the institution's end-of-year programme, Olatunji acknowledged the multitude of challenges facing the nation. However, he firmly declared that 2026 would be a year of glad tidings for those who hold onto faith.
He emphasized that the solution to Nigeria's pressing issues, including insecurity, lies with God. "God is never far away, but always near and talking to mankind all the time," Olatunji stated, assuring Nigerians that divine oversight remains constant.
God's Promise of Intervention and Solution
The Pro-Chancellor elaborated on the timeless nature of God's commitment to humanity. He referenced promises made even before the birth of Christ, asserting that divine intervention is a certainty. "God has made that promise... to intervene, save us from our enemies, and from every issue, problem, difficulty, fear, or harm that may confront us at any time," he explained.
Olatunji described God as the ultimate source of hope and resolution. "God is essentially the God of hope, the God of intervention, the God of solution," he said. "He is committed, caring, concerned, and able, ready, and willing to help." His advice for the coming year was clear: Nigerians should not be anxious but should instead make the God who sent them their primary focus.
A Call for Divine Guidance in National Affairs
While preaching personal faith, Pastor Olatunji also highlighted the nation's collective need for heavenly direction. He pointed out that Nigeria is in urgent need of divine intervention, inspiration, and instruction. He suggested a possible disconnect in current efforts, advising a return to foundational principles.
"What should be the message? Let’s put God first," Olatunji urged. "There is nothing God cannot do. There is no man God cannot handle." This call to prioritize faith serves as his core recommendation for navigating the complexities of the national landscape.
Alongside Olatunji's spiritual counsel, the Vice-Chancellor of Trinity University, Professor Clement Kolawole, commended the student body. He praised their excellent performances which delighted the school community and promised that the institution would continue to nurture talents and provide them with the platform to excel.
