In the Bible, there is a profound story that mirrors Nigeria’s current economic plight; a story of hardship, uncertainty, and divine intervention. The tale of Egypt’s famine during the time of Joseph resonates with the challenges facing Nigerians today. Just as the Egyptians experienced a prolonged season of lack, marked by scarcity and desperation, Nigeria’s economy is trudging through a season of inflation, high unemployment rates, and an unprecedented rise in the cost of living.
While delving into this biblical parallel, it is crucial to remember the lesson of Egypt’s deliverance and the enduring hope that saw them through their darkest days. Nigerians too, despite the overwhelming situation, can take solace in the fact that divine providence is always at work, and even in the bleakest moments, looking unto God is the most reliable path to redemption.
The story of Egypt’s famine can be found in Genesis 41. Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, was unjustly sold into slavery by his brothers and eventually found himself in Egypt. Through a series of divine interventions, Joseph rose to power as the second-in-command to Pharaoh. His elevation was not just a stroke of luck; it was God’s way of positioning him for a time of crisis that would test Egypt’s resilience.
Pharaoh had a disturbing dream that no one could interpret, but Joseph, through divine insight, explained that Egypt would experience seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. This revelation set the stage for one of the most severe economic crises recorded in the Bible.
Joseph, with God’s wisdom, advised Pharaoh to store grain during the years of plenty to prepare for the impending famine. When the seven years of scarcity struck, Egypt became the lifeline for surrounding nations as they came to buy food. The Egyptians, despite being prepared, still experienced severe hardship, but through wise governance and God’s provision, they survived.
Nigeria today finds itself in a situation not too dissimilar from Egypt’s famine. Over the past years, the country has witnessed fluctuating periods of economic prosperity and downturns. However, under the prevailing economic circumstances, the nation appears to be in the grip of its own “seven years of famine.” Inflation rates have skyrocketed, the Naira has plummeted in value, and the cost of basic commodities, from food to fuel, has become unbearable for the average Nigerian. Much like Egypt, the entire nation is experiencing hunger, both literal and figurative.
One of the most glaring symptoms of this economic downturn is the daily struggle of Nigerians to afford basic necessities. The fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange volatility, and rising cost of essential goods have made life exceedingly difficult. Jobs are scarce, and businesses are shutting down or moving their operations to more economically viable locations outside the country. The ordinary citizen is left with fewer resources and increasing despair.
However, while it may seem like there is no end in sight, it is essential to reflect on the lessons from Egypt’s famine. Just as Joseph’s prudent governance and unwavering faith in God allowed Egypt to weather the storm, Nigerians too can turn to God in these trying times, trusting that He will lead the nation out of this economic wilderness.
For instance, Joseph did not wait for the famine to strike before acting. He took proactive steps to store grain during the years of plenty, ensuring that when the famine came, Egypt was ready. In Nigeria’s context, this calls for responsible leadership, accountability, and long-term economic planning. Citizens and government alike must learn to plan ahead for tough times, ensuring that resources are managed wisely, corruption is curbed, and investments in critical sectors such as agriculture, technology, and education are prioritized. The reason for the foregoing view cannot be farfetched as the economic situation is by each passing day, since May 29, 2023 when President Bola Tinubu became Nigeria’s president becoming worse, even as it appears the government do not know what to do to salvage the situation.
In a similar vein, Joseph’s ability to interpret Pharaoh’s dream was a direct result of his faith in God. Throughout his journey, Joseph never lost sight of the fact that his ultimate source of strength and wisdom was divine. In these trying times, Nigerians must look beyond human efforts and recognize that God remains the ultimate provider. Just as Joseph relied on God’s guidance, Nigerians can trust that God will see them through the economic hardship and provide innovative solutions to seemingly insurmountable problems.
Also, during the famine, Egyptians and other nations came together in their shared need for survival. Joseph, despite being a foreigner in Egypt, was given the authority to manage resources, proving that in times of crisis, unity is essential. In Nigeria, there is a need for collective action. Citizens must unite and demand transparency, good governance, and policies that work for the greater good. Political leaders must set aside partisanship and selfish ambition, working together to ensure the nation’s prosperity.
In fact, as Nigerians endure these difficult economic times, it is easy to lose hope. But, just as Egypt’s famine eventually came to an end, there is hope for Nigeria’s recovery. The Bible teaches us that God is not indifferent to the sufferings of His people. He heard the cries of the Israelites when they were oppressed in Egypt, and He responded by delivering them. In the same vein, Nigerians must continue to call upon God for divine intervention, trusting that He will lead the country out of its current predicament.
In Isaiah 41:10, God promises, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” This assurance should serve as an anchor for Nigerians as they navigate these stormy waters.
Prayer and faith are powerful tools in times of crisis. While it is important to push for reforms, hold leaders accountable, and strive for economic recovery through human efforts, Nigerians must never forget the power of divine intervention. Just as God used Joseph to save Egypt from famine, He can raise up leaders and solutions that will turn Nigeria’s fortunes around.
Without a doubt, Nigeria’s current economic situation is undeniably difficult, but it is not without hope. The story of Egypt’s famine reminds us that even in the most challenging times, God is still at work. We must remain steadfast in our faith, continue to pray for divine intervention, and take practical steps to build a more prosperous future.
This is not a time to despair but to trust in God’s plan for Nigeria. Just as Egypt emerged from the famine stronger and more united, Nigeria can also rise from its economic woes with resilience and faith. As Joseph once said to his brothers, “What you meant for evil, God meant for good.” In the same way, the trials Nigeria is facing today can become the foundation for a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.
Let us continue looking unto God, for He is the ultimate provider and the source of true hope in every storm.
