World Without End: Why Nigerians Must Choose Compassion Over Pride

By: (Prince) Ibrahim Taiwo OLUGBANI 

from: Ikoyi, Lagos, Nigeria.

Nigeria has witnessed the passing of men of power, royalty, wisdom, wealth, and religious knowledge. From the corridors of government with Abacha, Musa Yar’Adua, and Muhammadu Buhari, to the royal palace of the late Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, and the wisdom of Danmasanin Kano, to the religious guidance of Sheikh Ja’afar and Albani, and the wealth of Mai Daribe, Sheikh Isyaku Rabiu, and Alhaji Aminu Dantata — all have returned to their Creator.

Yet, after their deaths, life continued. The sun still rose, families carried on, and society did not stop. This reality reminds us of a profound truth: no matter how great a person is, their departure does not halt the world.

In our communities, we often see widows remarry, children quarrel over inheritance, and debts left behind becoming burdens for others. These scenes teach us that wealth, status, and power are fleeting. Whoever builds their life on arrogance or unlawful gain will eventually face disappointment.

The Qur’an reminds us: “ Every soul shall taste death. And only on the Day of Resurrection shall you be paid your full recompense. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception. ” (Qur’an 3:185).

Similarly, the Bible teaches: “ For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. ” (1 Timothy 6:7). Both scriptures affirm that worldly possessions are temporary, and true value lies in righteousness and service to others.

Nigeria today is a nation grappling with poverty and inequality. According to the World Bank, 30.9% of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line, while rural poverty affects 75.5% of the population. Urban poverty is also significant, impacting 41.3% of city dwellers.

Unemployment remains a heavy burden, with millions of Nigerians struggling to find work. These figures are not just statistics — they represent families living in hardship, children going to bed hungry, and communities weighed down by despair.

In such a context, charity is not optional; it is a national duty.

Charity as Worship*

The Qur’an commands: “And they give food in spite of love for it to the needy, the orphan, and the captive, [saying], ‘ We feed you only for the countenance of Allah. We wish not from you reward or gratitude.’” (Qur’an 76:8–9).

The Bible echoes this: “ Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and He will reward them for what they have done .” (Proverbs 19:17).

Both faiths emphasize that feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, and supporting the vulnerable are acts that strengthen communities and bring blessings from God.

–  Feeding the poor and clothing the needy is more valuable than adorning sacred places.

–  Bringing joy to the heart of the struggling outweighs a thousand nights of prayer.

–  Doing good immediately is better than waiting until riches arrive; sincerity is greater than abundance.

–  Sadaqah shields us from calamities — thieves, fire, and even a bad ending.

–  Charity, given in secret, is honored by God (Matthew 6:3–4).  

As a nation, we must embrace humility and service. Imagine a Nigeria where every wealthy person fed ten hungry families, where every community supported its widows and orphans, and where charity was not occasional but a daily practice. Poverty would shrink, inequality would lessen, and hope would rise.

The greatest charity you can give right now is to share this reminder. Whoever benefits from it will earn reward, and you will share in that reward too.

Nigeria will be stronger if each of us chooses compassion over pride, and service over selfishness. The deaths of our leaders, royals, scholars, and wealthy icons remind us that life is short and the world does not stop for anyone. What remains eternal are righteous deeds and the mercy of God.

As the Qur’an says: “ Indeed, Allah loves those who rely upon Him .” (Qur’an 3:159). And as the Bible affirms: “ Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. ” (Matthew 5:7).