Ibiyeomie: Nigeria Will Never Become an Islamic Nation
Senior Pastor of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has declared that Nigeria will never become an Islamic nation, expressing concerns over the country’s worsening security situation and urging citizens to remain vigilant.
Speaking during his June 11 sermon titled “Reigning in Life” at Salvation Ministries headquarters in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the cleric linked the rising wave of kidnappings and attacks in parts of the country to what he described as a broader agenda aimed at influencing Nigeria’s religious identity.
Referencing recent reports of the abduction of dozens of villagers in Zamfara State, Ibiyeomie questioned the effectiveness of security operations against criminal groups and insurgents operating in parts of northern Nigeria.
According to the pastor, Nigerians must remain alert and committed to preserving religious freedom while supporting efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
“All this agenda is aimed at making Nigeria an Islamic nation, and it can never happen. Are you telling me they will turn an Igbo man or a South-South man into a Muslim? If the Nigerian Army wants to wipe them off, they can do it in one day,” he said during the sermon.
The remarks quickly generated reactions across social media and among political and religious observers. Supporters praised the cleric for speaking openly about security concerns and what they see as threats to religious coexistence in the country.
However, critics argued that such statements could deepen existing divisions and revive fears that may not accurately reflect Nigeria’s diverse religious and cultural realities. Some commentators described the remarks as alarmist and called for greater caution when discussing sensitive national issues.
Following the sermon, Salvation Ministries clarified that the message was intended to encourage vigilance, prayer, and the protection of religious freedom rather than promote hostility toward any faith group. The church emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and national unity while addressing the security challenges facing the nation.
Nigeria continues to grapple with insecurity in several regions, including banditry, kidnappings, and insurgent activities. These challenges have fueled ongoing debates about national security, religious harmony, and the role of government institutions in protecting citizens.
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As discussions continue, Ibiyeomie’s comments have once again highlighted the intersection of faith, security, and national identity in one of Africa’s most populous and religiously diverse countries.
