General Overseer of Christ Royal Family Church, Ikeja, Bishop Tom Samson
General Overseer of Christ Royal Family Church, Ikeja, Bishop Tom Samson, has called on the Bola Tinubu-led administration and Nigerian leaders to adopt a more purposeful and strategic approach to resolving the country’s economic challenges.
Speaking at a press conference ahead of the upcoming ‘Reigning in Life Conference 2025,’ themed: “It is war,” coming up on August 3, Bishop Samson emphasised that no amount of money would lift the nation out of poverty without good leadership and a renewed mindset.
“Even if the government gives N500,000 or N1 million to every citizen, poverty will persist if the money is not channeled to the right places or used wisely.”
He stressed that effective economic transformation hinges on leadership that understands the right priorities and acts with integrity.
He pointed out that many Nigerians believe that unseen forces are holding the country back. However, he argued that these challenges can be overcome through faith, discipline and a shift in collective thinking. “We often feel like there’s a giant devil holding Nigeria down, but with God on our side and a changed mindset, we can succeed,” he said.
He expressed concern that Nigeria’s poverty problem is not only rooted in economic policies but also in the way people think and behave. “Some people will use their money on betting, others on women, and some just can’t manage resources because they lack self-control. Even if you hand out large sums without discipline and focus, nothing will change,” he said.
Reflecting on his personal journey, the cleric recalled arriving in Lagos years ago from Ekpoma University in Edo State with nothing to his name. “I had no place to stay, but I had a strong belief that I would not remain poor. That mindset changed my story.”
He encouraged Nigerians to reject hopelessness and take action in their lives. “Until you make a move, things won’t change. That’s what entrepreneurship is about, taking initiative and creating opportunities,” he said.
The Reigning in Life Conference, which started during his university years to combat cultism and negative ideologies, has grown into a platform for personal transformation. Over the years, the programme has led many students to abandon violent lifestyles and discover new paths through faith. Now based in Lagos, the conference continues to focus on setting people free from spiritual and mental limitations.
“This war is not physical, it is ideological. It’s about breaking strongholds in our minds and lives that prevent progress. Our lives can be better than they are now, but we must wage war against the things that keep us down,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to believe in their country again, take responsibility and align their minds with purpose and hope
