{
  "id": 15347777,
  "title": "Makinde: Nigeria’s main challenge Is Poverty, not Religion",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/makinde-nigerias-main-challenge-is-poverty-not-religion",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-18T02:18:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Trust",
    "slug": "daily-trust",
    "url": "https://dailytrust.com/makinde-nigerias-main-challenge-is-poverty-not-religion/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Seyi Makinde, the Presidential Candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and Governor of Oyo State, has declared that Nigeria's most significant challenge is poverty. This assertion came during his acceptance of the Christian Icon of the Year award by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abuja. Makinde sees this recognition as an opportunity to motivate Christians to actively engage in politics where they can influence the nation's economic and political trajectory. He urged Christians to overcome their apprehension about politics, which they often view as ungodly or incongruous with their faith. Makinde pointed to biblical examples of people who served in challenging circumstances to illustrate that religious convictions should not deter one from engaging in governance or contributing to societal advancement. He emphasized that the biblical narrative offers a vital lesson for Christians who may be hesitant to enter the political arena due to the religious beliefs of those in power. Makinde urged Christians to recognize that their role extends beyond religious platforms and to utilize their skills and values to contribute to societal transformation. In his remarks, Makinde highlighted that Nigeria's primary concern is the widespread poverty affecting millions, rather than religious discord. He stressed that the country's focus should be on tackling economic difficulties to improve the lives of its citizens. Makinde cautioned against allowing religious differences to overshadow national discussions and stressed that the mission of national transformation necessitates the collective effort of all citizens, regardless of their religious beliefs, political affiliations, or personal convictions.",
  "summary": "Presidential Candidate of Allied Peoples Movement (APM) and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, says the country’s biggest problem is poverty. Makinde said this while reacting to his recognition as Christian Icon of the Year, by the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Abuja, on Saturday. He said the honour presented an opportunity to encourage Christians […]",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Daily Post Nigeria",
        "title": "Peter Obi questions why Nigeria did not declare public holiday on World Poverty Day",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/18/peter-obi-questions-why-nigeria-did-not-declare-public-holiday-on",
        "published": "2026-10-18T05:08:17.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}