By Desmond Ejibas
US-based Nigerian cleric, Apostle Queen Belemzy, founder of Queen Belemzy Ministries-School of Power, has urged Nigerian authorities to address insecurity and social vices that dent the nation’s image.
Belemzy spoke to journalists on the sidelines of her three-day birthday celebration in Port Harcourt on Monday.
The programme, themed “Holy Ghost Encounter,” marked her 46th birthday and return to Nigeria to reconnect with her Port Harcourt roots.
She said insecurity had made some Nigerians and foreigners apprehensive about visiting the country.
“I want Nigeria to become a place where I would not need to have security to move around,” she said.
Belemzy said she had initially struggled with the decision to return to Nigeria because of reports of insecurity and kidnappings.
She said some members of her ministry from Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States and United Arab Emirates, among others were also concerned about visiting Nigeria.
“If these issues are curbed, Nigeria is a wonderful and beautiful country, and so, people will want to come here,” she said.
The apostle also urged authorities to address alleged extortions and begging at the nation’s airports, describing such practices as discouraging to first-time visitors.
She alleged that some members of her ministry experienced an incident at an airport after arriving in Nigeria.
“One airport official forced them to give her money, telling them that if they don’t pay her 20 dollars, they will not pass,” she alleged.
Belemzy urged authorities to investigate such complaints and ensure visitors received proper treatment at Nigerian airports.
According to her, begging and demands for money at airports could create a negative impression of the country among visitors.
She acknowledged that economic hardship could contribute to begging but said it should not be used to justify the practice.
Belemzy said Nigeria had abundant talent, natural resources, and cultural and tourism attractions capable of attracting more visitors if security concerns were addressed.
She praised Nigerian cuisine, saying that since arriving in the country four weeks earlier, she had been unable to stop eating the food.
She described the food as delicious and easy to digest, adding that it was made from natural and organic ingredients rather than chemicals.
“Nigeria is so blessed. People want to come but they are afraid of what will happen. Will they be kidnapped or robbed?” she said.
The cleric said she returned to contribute to the development of Nigeria after dedicating her life to Jesus Christ, with plans to share her faith and support people through her ministry.
“I used to be a party promoter at the club. So, after I gave my life to Christ, I decided to bring His message to Nigeria as a woman of God,” she said.
She said she chose to celebrate her birthday in her hometown, Port Harcourt, following what she described as God’s direction.
Belemzy said the celebration, which centred on Jesus Christ, was part of her commitment to obeying God and reconnecting with her roots.
“I have visited Nigeria nine times between 2025 and 2026 to bring the message of Jesus Christ and support the people.
“I came back home because God is up to something. Nigerians should follow Jesus Christ because He is the light of the world,” she said.
The apostle said her ministry had also been supporting vulnerable people through various philanthropic initiatives across the country.
She disclosed that the ministry had distributed free clothes, food and Bibles, while also providing financial support to enable some people to start businesses.
“I am not really a politician. I am a woman of God. I am not here to criticize or condemn but to help build,” she said.
Belemzy expressed optimism that Nigeria could improve if leaders and citizens embraced values of compassion, responsibility and service.
She urged Nigerians to elect leaders who demonstrated concern for citizens through their actions and delivery of promised programmes. (NAN)
Edited by Joshua Olomu
Comments