Adebayo: Nigeria Is Too Rich to Be Poor, Says Leaders Have Failed to Harness Nation’s “Hidden Treasures”

Former Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has declared that Nigeria cannot be poor, insisting that the nation is richly endowed with what he described as “hidden treasures.”

Speaking in Abuja at the public presentation of a new book titled “The Hidden Treasures,” written by Deacon Chris Iyowaye, Prince Adebayo said Nigeria’s problem is not the absence of resources but the failure of successive leaders to identify and develop the vast opportunities available across the country.

According to him, “every square inch of Nigeria contains treasure—human, mineral, solid, liquid, surface and underground.”

Prince Adebayo emphasized that the Niger Delta remains a symbol of Nigeria’s global importance, noting that the region has sustained national revenue and international energy relevance for decades. He also stated that the area has played a significant role in his personal life.

The former SDP flagbearer urged leaders to stop waiting for external solutions and instead harness the nation’s abundant resources, warning that the world continues to exploit what Nigerians overlook.

He commended the author of Hidden Treasures, Deacon Chris Iyowaye, describing the work as a timely reminder that Nigeria’s prosperity lies within the country and its people.

Meanwhile, Deacon Chris Iyowaye explained that the book is the product of nearly 20 years of research and field experience. He stressed that the Niger Delta holds far more value than crude oil, pointing to significant deposits of critical minerals, marine resources, agricultural potential, and human capital.

Iyowaye further stated that Hidden Treasures also lays the foundation for the New Crete Oil Foundation, an initiative focused on community development. According to him, proceeds from the book will support clean water projects, women’s agricultural training, and youth leadership and educational programmes.

He added that the initiative reflects a commitment to shaping a better future for the Niger Delta as the world transitions toward cleaner energy alternatives.