Peter Obi takes Nigeria’s burdens to God in Rome

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, says he has taken Nigeria’s challenges before God during a spiritual pilgrimage to Rome.

Obi, who had earlier visited the United States to speak at the Friendship Club and the 1st Ubuntu African Youth Assembly in Washington, said he travelled to Rome to join his wife for prayers dedicated to Nigeria’s peace, unity, and renewal.

Marking the Jubilee Year , a Catholic celebration held every 25 years, Obi said he and his wife offered prayers of thanksgiving for Nigeria’s unity despite decades of trials, and sought divine forgiveness and mercy upon the nation.

They also prayed for the emergence of selfless and compassionate leaders who would govern with integrity, competence, and genuine concern for citizens’ welfare.

During the pilgrimage, Obi and his wife passed through the four Holy Doors of the major Papal Basilicas in Rome — St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. John Lateran, and St. Peter’s Basilica — symbolising their intercession for divine mercy upon Nigeria.

At St. Peter’s Basilica, the couple attended the Papal General Audience and later met with Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex), to whom Obi appealed for prayers for Nigeria.

Reflecting on the journey, Obi said the experience strengthened his faith in God’s providence and renewed his hope for the nation’s future.

“Faith does not absolve us of responsibility; it calls us to action,” he said. “As Nigerians, we must each do our part — with honesty, diligence, and love — for the healing and progress of our country.”

He concluded with optimism that “A new Nigeria is POssible.”