Primate Elijah Ayodele is the founder and spiritual head of Inri Evangelical Spiritual Church, Lagos. In this interview, the popular seer speaks on what Nigeria and the world should expect in 2025 and beyond......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
LET’S start with your general outlook for 2025. What do you foresee?
The year 2025 will be a critical one for Nigeria. At the onset, I foresee confusion and complaints among the populace. The economy will face sluggish growth, coupled with difficulties that will create significant tension. The spirit of God has revealed to me that Nigerians must fast and pray during the first seven days of the year to seek divine intervention in five major areas, including economic stability, health, security, and political harmony.
Can you elaborate on the economic issues Nigerians might face?
The economy will continue to experience hardships. The government will resort to borrowing, which will exacerbate the national debt and create further tensions in the Senate. Persistent issues like power supply disruptions will remain, and the electricity distribution companies will face significant operational challenges.
There will also be food shortage, with prices of essential commodities like corn, tomatoes, onions, and even diesel skyrocketing. Tariffs on vehicles will be contested, and inflation will worsen the poverty rate. The government must encourage local manufacturers and focus on exportation to alleviate these issues.
Tax reforms will face stiff opposition and division of interests. While these reforms have the potential to improve Nigeria’s economy, corruption could create setbacks. The government must redesign its systems and intensify public reorientation for any meaningful impact.
Security has been a concern for Nigeria. What do you see happening in this area?
Security challenges will persist in various states, including Zamfara, Yobe, Imo, Kaduna, and Anambra, where banditry, kidnappings, and farmer-herder clashes will increase. Nigerians must pray against acts of terrorism, such as suicide bombings, particularly in Abuja and other vulnerable areas.
There will also be concerns about political assassinations and protests from human rights activists against controversial laws. The government must strengthen its crisis control mechanisms to address these challenges effectively.
What is your prediction for the political landscape in 2025?
Politically, I foresee turbulence. The ruling party will face strong opposition, with coalitions forming to challenge its dominance. However, unless these coalitions are strategically organized and guided by divine direction, their efforts may fall short.
There will be controversies surrounding new policies, appointments, and minimum wage implementation. Additionally, tensions will arise over local government autonomy and the creation of new state, further burdening the federal government.
The government will also take steps to suppress dissent, making it challenging for opposition voices to be heard. Internal conflicts within the ruling party and among Tinubu’s aides will add to the political drama.
The National Assembly will face a turbulent start to the year. Political activities will be intense and heated. I foresee calls for constitutional reform, but the Senate and the House of Representatives will be divided on many policies. Efforts to cut governance costs will be made, but these may not yield significant results. The Senate will face discrepancies in its agenda. Opposition members may feel frustrated and silenced, and those who don’t align with the ruling party might be sidelined. There are plans to suppress opposition members, possibly forcing them to defect to the ruling party. Additionally, the Senate must be careful not to contradict itself on controversial bills, as misunderstandings between the Senate and the House of Representatives are likely. There’s also the possibility of gang-ups against the Senate President with risks of indictment. The House of Representatives will also face its share of challenges. Renovations to its chambers are likely, but there’s a need to pray against fire outbreaks. The House must seek divine guidance to navigate these turbulent times effectively.
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) will face several challenges, including legal conflicts and court cases against the government. There’s a need for caution in implementing certain laws, as some may result in dire consequences. Additionally, Nigeria might face renewed scrutiny in international legal matters, such as the unresolved Malabo oil case.
The Labour Party and PDP will face internal struggles, while a new party may emerge from disgruntled APC and PDP members. However, existing parties will rise to frustrate the efforts of this new party.
In elections, I foresee Soludo retaining his seat in the 2025 Anambra gubernatorial election. Similarly, the current governors of Ekiti and Osun states will likely secure re-election, though Osun’s governor must strategize carefully to overcome opposition.
On the topic of regional unity, what do you foresee concerning secession and regional agitation?
There will be calls for self-determination from Yoruba and Igbo groups, but these will not succeed. The government will clamp down on these movements. Northerners will also express dissatisfaction with the Tinubu administration, accusing it of nepotism. The Igbo and Northern regions will feel marginalized, causing divisions within these communities.
Do you have any specific insights about Nnamdi Kanu?
Nnamdi Kanu will be released, but it will be through negotiation rather than legal means.
What about President Tinubu’s administration and the 2027 elections?
The Tinubu government will face numerous challenges, both internal and external. Financial difficulties will force the government to seek loans and sell federal properties. To retain power in 2027, Tinubu will need to reconcile with the youth, northerners, and Igbos. However, if the government fails to heed divine guidance, public dissatisfaction may lead to loss of support.
Beyond politics and the economy, are there other areas of concern for 2025?
Yes, there are several. Natural disasters, such as massive flooding and potential dam overflow, must be anticipated and mitigated. Food and water shortages will further strain resources. Additionally, I foresee a rise in drug abuse among youths, prompting the NDLEA to intensify its campaigns. Cultism will also be a concern requiring decisive action from authorities.
Shifting focus globally, what do you foresee for the world at large?
The world will face instability, including political crises, climatic issues, and rising sea levels. There will be agitation for self-determination in various regions and violations of international laws. Countries like the US, UK, and China will experience policy changes, while natural disasters, wildfires, and terrorist attacks may occur. Leaders must prioritize peace and preparedness to mitigate these challenges.
Are there specific warnings or prayers you recommend?
Yes, Nigeria and the world must pray against kidnappings, protests, corruption, and disasters such as fires, floods, and plane crashes. Leaders need divine guidance to overcome challenges, and the public must stay vigilant and prayerful.
Amidst these challenges, what gives you hope, and what recommendations would you make to the government?
My hope lies in the resilience and prayers of Nigerians. If the government prioritizes agriculture by establishing farm settlements and supporting local production, it can mitigate the impact of poverty and hunger. Encouraging local manufacturers, reducing dependence on imports, and addressing infrastructural deficiencies are crucial. Transparent governance and effective economic policies will help restore confidence and stability.