The Senior Pastor of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, has criticised Nigeria’s political culture, saying the celebration of questionable wealth is discouraging creative entrepreneurs and talented individuals from contributing to national development.

Achudume said the perception of politics as a shortcut to wealth, rather than an avenue for public service, was undermining the country’s potential to develop innovative businesses and nurture resourceful individuals.

He spoke during the thanksgiving service marking the 50th anniversary of the Ogun State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Abeokuta.

According to a statement issued by the church’s media office on Sunday, the cleric expressed concern that individuals who accumulated wealth through questionable political means were often celebrated instead of being held accountable.

He argued that Nigeria needed more people who could use their talents, ideas and creativity to solve societal problems, establish businesses and inspire others, rather than depend on political power for personal enrichment.

Achudume also condemned what he described as the declining standard of societal values, particularly the promotion of indecent dressing and nudity in the name of entertainment and fashion.

“They celebrate emptiness and call it showbiz. They celebrate nakedness and call it fashion,” he said.

The pastor further criticised the growing emphasis on social media popularity, noting that some individuals measured their relevance by the number of followers they had online.

He urged Nigerians to make responsible choices, resist negative societal influences and pursue lives defined by purpose and positive contributions.

Achudume said people need to build a strong relationship with God before encountering difficulties, noting that challenges were inevitable in business, marriage, careers and other areas of life.

He encouraged Christians to remain steadfast during difficult times instead of abandoning their convictions or seeking questionable spiritual alternatives for solutions.

During the service, the Ogun State NUJ Chairman, Wale Olanrewaju, commended Achudume for his longstanding support for journalism and his contributions to society.

Olanrewaju described the cleric as a social crusader who used his voice to challenge government actions and draw attention to issues requiring urgent intervention.

He said Achudume’s relationship with journalists and willingness to support the profession had earned him the respect and affection of media practitioners.

The chairman added that the cleric’s interventions on issues of public interest extended beyond his religious responsibilities, making him a worthy recipient of the council’s recognition.

In recognition of his contributions to journalism and society, Achudume was conferred with the Ogun NUJ Golden Jubilee Ambassador Award at the thanksgiving service held as part of activities marking the council’s 50th anniversary.