Pastor Iren Defends Nigeria’s Security Structure

November 13, 2025 OLAOLUWA AYOMIDE

A Bold Remark Sparks National Conversation

During a recent sermon, Pastor Emmanuel Iren, founder and lead pastor of Celebration Church International, stirred public debate with his statement that Nigeria’s security system is “one of the best in the world.”

At a time when the nation grapples with insecurity, from insurgency in the north to kidnappings and armed robbery in other regions, his words stood out as both surprising and thought-provoking. Yet behind the humor of his delivery lies a deeper message about perception, privilege, and shared civic responsibility.

Recognizing Effort in the Face of Challenges

Pastor Iren acknowledged that while Nigeria faces undeniable security challenges, there are still countless dedicated and courageous officers who work tirelessly to protect lives and maintain order. He praised the efforts of law enforcement agencies who often serve under difficult and dangerous conditions, stressing that their contributions deserve more public recognition and support.

He noted that many Nigerians tend to focus on failures while overlooking small victories that reflect resilience and professionalism within the system. “Despite the challenges Nigeria faces,” he said, “the efforts of law enforcement officials and security personnel have made the country relatively safe for its citizens.”

A Thought-Provoking Illustration

In his sermon, Pastor Iren humorously observed,

“I think, in my opinion, our security infrastructure is actually one of the best in the world. Be a rich person in trouble. Drop money and see, they will bring the thief for you, am I lying? So maybe the problem is that, where the wickedness is happening, the voices there are poor. Maybe it doesn’t matter much to us as much as we pretend.”

His statement drew laughter but also highlighted a serious truth; that justice and security in Nigeria often depend on social class and influence. Rather than glorifying corruption, Pastor Iren exposed the imbalance that allows some citizens to receive swift protection while others suffer in silence. His words called for deeper reflection on how fairness, equality, and empathy must shape the nation’s pursuit of safety.

Security as a Shared Responsibility

The pastor urged Nigerians not to place all blame on the government but to recognize that security begins with everyone. He called for citizens to stay vigilant, support local authorities, and participate actively in initiatives that promote peace.

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“Security,” he emphasized, “is a shared responsibility between the government and the people.” He encouraged communities to cooperate with law enforcement and reject attitudes of indifference or hostility toward officers who risk their lives daily.

Faith, Gratitude, and Civic Duty

For Pastor Iren, appreciating the good within a flawed system aligns with biblical teaching. The Scriptures call believers to honor those in authority and pray for peace in their nation (Romans 13:1–7; 1 Timothy 2:1–2). By recognizing the human effort behind the uniform, Nigerians can build mutual trust that leads to lasting reform.

He concluded his message with a reminder that gratitude and accountability must coexist, urging Nigerians to hope, pray, and work together for a safer future.

Conclusion: A Message Beyond Controversy

While Pastor Iren’s remarks have drawn mixed reactions, his words open a vital conversation about civic responsibility, justice, and faith in nation-building. His message challenges Nigerians to balance criticism with appreciation and to remember that real progress begins not only with policy but with the mindset and unity of the people.

Ultimately, the call is simple yet profound: support those who protect, speak truth with love, and play your part in building the Nigeria you desire.