Faith Before Figures: Senator Orji Kalu Opens Tinubu’s Budget Session with PrayerIt was a significant time as Senator Orji Uzor Kalu was called up by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to lead the prayer during President Bola Tinubu’s 2026 budget presentation to a joint session of the National Assembly. As the room fell into a hush, Senator Kalu stood with humility and grace, ready to offer a prayer that would set the tone for the important proceedings ahead.
“Let us bow our heads in prayer,” Senator Kalu began, his voice resonating with a deep sense of reverence. “Heavenly Father, we come before you today with hearts full of gratitude for the opportunity to gather and deliberate on the future of our great nation. We ask for your guidance and wisdom to lead us through this time of budget presentation, and we lift up President Bola Tinubu to you, asking for your continued blessing and insight as he leads our country.”
His words carried a sense of solemnity and respect, drawing the attention of those present to the importance of the moment. As he continued, Senator Kalu’s prayer took on a deeply Christian tone, reflecting his unwavering faith and belief in the power of divine intervention.
“We pray, Lord, that you grant President Tinubu the wisdom to discern the needs of our people and the courage to make decisions that will positively impact the lives of every Nigerian. May he be a leader who seeks justice, promotes unity, and works tirelessly for the well-being of our nation.”
The sincerity in his voice resonated with the audience, who listened intently, moved by the depth of his words. Senator Kalu then turned his prayers to the people of Nigeria, invoking blessings upon both the affluent and the less fortunate.
“We ask for your blessings upon every Nigerian, from the wealthiest among us to those who struggle to find their next meal. May we all be united in our efforts to build a better future for our country, and may we never lose sight of the values of compassion, empathy, and resilience. Lord, we pray for the strength to overcome adversity and the wisdom to embrace diversity, so that Nigeria may truly be a beacon of hope and progress.”
With each word, Senator Kalu’s prayer seemed to weave a tapestry of hope and optimism, infusing the room with a sense of solidarity and purpose. His final words resonated with unwavering faith, as he invoked the power of Christ to guide the destiny of Nigeria.
“We place our trust in you, O Lord, and we pray that through your grace, Nigeria will emerge as a great and prosperous nation. May our leaders be inspired by your teachings, and may our people be blessed with peace, abundance, and unity. We offer this prayer through Christ our Lord, amen.”
As the final words echoed through the chamber, a profound sense of reverence filled the room. Senator Kalu’s prayer had not only set the stage for President Tinubu’s budget presentation but had also reminded all present of the enduring power of faith and hope in shaping the destiny of a nation.
Rubby Obinna
December 19, 2025.
