Bishop David Oyedepo Declares Nationwide Prayer as Critics Say “Nigeria Needs Action, Not Fasting”

Bishop David Oyedepo has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s rising insecurity, warning that the nation is facing a spiritual and existential threat requiring urgent divine intervention. Speaking during a special service at Faith Tabernacle, the Senior Pastor noted that insecurity has continued to escalate despite ongoing military operations and government efforts. He emphasized that the current reality demands a return to intense spiritual engagement.

Bishop David Oyedepo explained that the call for nationwide prayer is not merely a religious ritual but a collective responsibility for all Nigerians. He stated that every nation that has conquered deep-rooted crises has done so through a combination of strategy and spiritual alignment. According to him, Nigeria must adopt the same approach if peace is to be restored.

Bishop David Oyedepo warned that without a decisive spiritual response, the country risks further socio-economic decline as insecurity continues to affect agricultural communities, businesses, schools, and places of worship. He insisted that prayer remains a powerful tool for national healing, unity, and divine protection.

Bishop David Oyedepo Announces Seven-Day Prayer and Fasting to Restore Peace

Bishop David Oyedepo formally declared a seven-day nationwide fasting and prayer initiative scheduled to begin on Monday, 24th November 2025. He described the programme as a prophetic response to the bloodshed, kidnappings, insurgency, and widespread violence affecting several states, especially Borno State. He stated that Nigeria must seek God’s intervention with sincerity and unity.

Bishop David Oyedepo further urged church leaders, prayer groups, and Christian associations across the country to mobilize participants for the spiritual exercise. According to him, the stability of the nation depends on the willingness of Nigerians to stand in the gap through collective supplication. He said the nation must not continue to rely solely on physical mechanisms while neglecting spiritual responsibilities.

Bishop David Oyedepo stressed that the fasting and prayer will focus on peace, divine protection, healing of the land, and the dismantling of the forces behind insecurity. He expressed confidence that as believers unite in intercession, God will cause a shift in the spiritual atmosphere over Nigeria.

Bishop David Oyedepo Calls for National Unity and Faith-Based Action

Bishop David Oyedepo called on Nigerians across religious, ethnic, and political divides to unite in the pursuit of national peace. He noted that insecurity affects every community regardless of background and that the country must not allow division to hinder collective progress. He urged Nigerians to lay aside differences and embrace unity of purpose in this critical moment.

Bishop David Oyedepo maintained that although government security agencies continue to work tirelessly, national transformation requires a balance of physical vigilance and spiritual sensitivity. He encouraged citizens to support ongoing interventions while also engaging in prayer, as both are necessary instruments for restoring stability.

Bishop David Oyedepo expressed hope that the seven-day prayer programme will mark the beginning of a new chapter for Nigeria. He prayed that God would grant wisdom to leaders, protect vulnerable communities, and silence the forces fueling violence. He reiterated that Nigeria will rise again if the people remain steadfast in faith and united in purpose.