A concerned Nigerian citizen and retired civil servant, Mallam Lawal Mohammed Hamidu, has appealed to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, to urgently convene a special national prayer session aimed at seeking divine intervention for Nigeria’s numerous challenges.

In an open letter dated June 23, 2026, and made available to journalists in Osogbo, Hamidu said the appeal was driven by patriotism and concern over the country’s current state, which he described as one of the most difficult periods in its history.

According to him, Nigeria is grappling with widespread insecurity, terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes, violent extremism, economic hardship, unemployment, inflation, food insecurity and growing public dissatisfaction.

He noted that millions of Nigerians have been affected by these challenges, with many families losing loved ones, farmers unable to cultivate their lands safely, businesses struggling to survive, and confidence in public institutions steadily declining.

Hamidu further expressed concern over what he described as the erosion of national unity and trust among citizens, warning that ethnic, religious and political divisions are increasingly threatening the country’s cohesion.

He recalled that Nigerians have historically turned to God during times of crisis and uncertainty, adding that collective prayers have often helped to strengthen hope, promote reconciliation and renew national resolve.

The retired civil servant said Gowon, through his longstanding commitment to the Nigeria Prays movement and his reputation as a respected elder statesman, remains uniquely positioned to unite Nigerians across religious, regional and political divides.

He therefore urged the former Head of State to convene a Special National Day of Prayer and Intercession involving Christian and Muslim leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, civil society groups, youth and women organisations, security agencies and citizens from all parts of the country.

According to Hamidu, the objectives of the gathering should include seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness for the nation, praying for lasting peace and security, and asking for divine wisdom for President Bola Tinubu, governors, lawmakers, the judiciary and other public office holders.

He also suggested prayers for members of the Armed Forces, Police, intelligence services and other security agencies, as well as divine intervention for economic recovery, food security, job creation and national prosperity.

Other goals, he said, should include promoting national reconciliation, justice, unity and peaceful coexistence, while encouraging Nigerians to recommit themselves to integrity, patriotism, compassion and service to the nation.

Hamidu stressed that the proposed prayer gathering should not be seen as a replacement for effective governance, sound economic policies or security measures, but rather as a complementary effort that reflects the belief of many Nigerians that lasting national transformation requires both human effort and divine guidance.

He added that a united national prayer led by Gowon could help restore hope, strengthen solidarity and remind Nigerians of their shared destiny despite existing differences.

“Your Excellency, this may once again be your opportunity to provide the kind of moral leadership that transcends politics and inspires a nation yearning for healing,” Hamidu stated.