Church of Nigeria Urges President Tinubu to Address Growing Hunger and Economic Hardship
Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the growing hunger and economic hardship faced by Nigerians. This appeal was made following the issuance of a communiqué in Abuja after the Church’s Standing Committee meeting, where key figures such as Primate Ndukuba, Dean Most Rev.
Blessing Enyindah, and General Secretary Ven. Gershinen Paul Dajur expressed concerns about the state of national affairs. The communiqué highlighted various critical issues, including government policies, the fight against corruption, judiciary concerns, the deteriorating economy, and the neglect of quality education. It also condemned ongoing attacks in several states and urged the government and security forces to protect citizens and their property.
The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) called on the government to address corruption and ensure that corrupt public office holders are held accountable. The judiciary was urged to ensure justice in the country, while the government was advised to reconsider its approach to external borrowing, focus on fiscal policies, and diversify the economy by harnessing natural resources.
The communiqué also expressed concern about the failure of the government to provide quality education, leading to Nigerians seeking admission in other countries and weakening the Nigerian economy. The Church renewed its call for a civilian and democratic constitution that truly represents the people.
During an interaction with journalists, Archbishop Ndukuba addressed issues such as the alleged involvement of religious organizations in sponsoring terrorism. He called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to operate independently and hold religious bodies accountable without generalizing. He emphasized that religion should be a source of solutions, not a contributor to societal issues, and urged the EFCC to perform its duties without interference.
Regarding the potential Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) strike, the Primate advocated for dialogue over conflict and suggested governmental measures to meet national requirements, potentially including a cabinet reshuffle. He emphasized the injustice of silencing public expression, stating that Nigerians should have the right to express themselves. He called for policies that address the nation’s needs, even if it requires a cabinet reshuffle, and emphasized that it is unjust to silence public expressions.
Archbishop Ndukuba dismissed the idea of moving the capital from Abuja to Lagos and instead advocated for the development of new cities across the six geopolitical zones to reduce congestion and promote balanced development. He cited China’s strategy of constructing new cities as an example and emphasized the need for strategic, long-term planning for Nigeria’s future sustainability and growth.
He encouraged Nigerians to invest in agriculture and urged the political elite to ensure equitable distribution of national wealth. He also highlighted the importance of the rule of law in promoting national virtues of faith, love, and progress.
Vanguard News
