Prelate Oliver Ali Abba of the Methodist Church of Nigeria said the prosperity of African and global economies depended on Nigeria's large population.
The prelate said this on Friday, during the 60th birthday celebrations of Methodist Bishop Ndukwo Onuoha Sunday, Okai Item, Bende Local Council, Abia State.
He said that the country's population of about 200 million people makes it relatively economically advantageous among other countries, and that the country has some natural resources and human resources in some parts of the country. He added that they are rich in resources.
He declared that despite the mirage of problems facing the country, Nigeria is on a trajectory of progress.
According to him, the world economy cannot survive without Nigeria's growing population.
“Nigeria today has moved beyond the level of struggle and is striving for greatness.
As many of you may know, Nigeria, with a population of approximately 200 million people, has wider significance for both the African continent and the entire world in terms of what it takes to be a great economy.
“And because of our population, the whole world depends on us. We are therefore on a trajectory of progress until we are completely resolved,” the Methodist prelate said.
Ali Abba, who also performed a church service, advised wealthy Nigerians to give back to society by helping the poor.
Speaking at the event, former Bauchi State Governor Isa Yuguda lamented that many Nigerians do not even have access to drinking water while members of the National Assembly divert billions of dollars to themselves.
Also, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who attended the event as a special guest, praised Bishop Sunday Onuoha, who celebrated his 60th birthday, and for building the hospital “Okaai Item” for his people. He said it would save the lives of rural residents.
