Strong family values, key to nation building — Reps spokesman

The Spokesman of the House of Representatives, Hon. Akin Rotimi, has emphasised the importance of strong family values to national development and progress.

The lawmaker, who represents Ekiti North 1 (Ikole/Oye) Federal Constituency, noted that Nigeria can only flourish when families are united through the restoration of dignity, contentment, hard work, and a reshaped collective orientation grounded in godly principles.

Speaking over the weekend in Ikole during the second edition of the Easter Family Life Thanksgiving Service, organised by the lawmaker with the theme “Rebuilding Families, Renewing Nigeria: The Role of the Church”, Rotimi lamented the spread of false ideologies and moral relativism associated with modern-day marriage. He expressed concern that children are increasingly exposed to online content that glorifies social vices and ridicules virtuous behavior.

He called on religious institutions to rise as moral compasses and guide families back to God’s divine design.

The lawmaker stated, “This gathering is more than a moment of praise and reflection; it is a declaration of faith and conviction. We believe, as Scripture teaches, that righteousness exalts a nation. But the foundation of righteousness begins at home. Nations only flourish when family units are sound—where love, discipline, godliness, and mutual respect are nurtured.

“As a public official and representative of over 500,000 people across 40 communities, I continue to do my best to address the many gaps in public service delivery. This commitment is reflected in both my legislative efforts and my work in attracting development and empowerment to our homeland, with a deliberate focus on reaching the most vulnerable among us and ensuring that no one is left behind.

“My mission as a transformation agent in public service is not merely a career choice; it is a calling rooted in, and continually inspired by, my Christian faith. This spiritual foundation shapes my values, informs my priorities, and sustains my resolve to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

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“The more I labour in this space and engage with the systemic challenges our nation faces, the clearer it becomes that the root of many of our national problems lies within the state of the family unit. If we are to truly fix our society, we must first fix our homes—by restoring a culture of dignity, contentment, and hard work, and by reshaping our collective orientation through godly principles.

“Sadly, we live in a time when the family unit is under siege. The sacred institution of marriage is being eroded by false ideologies and moral relativism. Our children are exposed daily to content—in songs, movies, and on social media—that glamorizes vice and mocks virtue.

“What God abhors is now being normalized, even celebrated. This is not just a cultural shift; it is a spiritual battle. And the Church must rise as a moral compass, guiding families back to God’s original design.

“That is why this year’s theme, ‘Rebuilding Families, Renewing Nigeria: The Role of the Church’, is both timely and urgent. If we are to see national renewal, we must start by strengthening marriages, guiding our youth, and empowering parents to lead with wisdom and grace.”

Also speaking, the Olootunja of Ootunja-Ekiti in Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, Oba Joseph Fagbamila, appealed to political leaders in the country to lead the people according to God’s will—or be ready to face the consequences.

The monarch explained that politics should not be seen as an obstacle to God’s will but rather as a platform for fulfilling divine instructions in people’s lives.

According to him, “I am not among those who believe one cannot inherit the kingdom of God if you are a politician. All I know is that if you emulate God’s ways and do what is right, you will definitely make it to the sanctuary. But if you do otherwise, you will face divine retribution.

“If the home is good, the society will be okay. I urge all parents, especially men, to put God first in their endeavours and seek His grace to take full control over their marriages.”

In his sermon, Pastor Sola Osunmakinde urged Ekiti residents to prioritize God in all their pursuits.

The cleric explained that God is the only divine entity endowed with the celestial power to restore lost glories, and he encouraged families to stay united in order to build a better Nigeria.