Archbishop Alfred Adewale Martins of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has called on Nigerian leaders to prioritize the welfare of citizens and address the country’s rising poverty, unemployment, and insecurity.
Delivering his 2024 Christmas message, signed by the Director of Social Communications, Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, the Archbishop, emphasized the importance of creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and reduce widespread hardship.
Addressing current policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies, naira flotation, and new tax reforms, Archbishop Martins stressed that while these measures might have long-term benefits, they should not neglect the immediate needs of the people.
“The people for whom the policies are being made must not die before the positive results begin to manifest,” he stated.
He urged governments to adopt prudent and compassionate spending while focusing on sustainable solutions, particularly in agriculture, to ensure food security and alleviate hunger.
The Archbishop described as “sorrowful and depressing” the recent loss of lives in stampedes in Ibadan, Abuja, and Anambra, where desperate citizens scrambled for food palliatives.
Mentioning the gravity of the situation, he noted how challenging it has become for many Nigerians to afford necessities, especially during the festive season meant for joy, sharing, and love.
“To forestall a recurrence of such ugly incidents, federal and state governments, as well as legislative bodies, must identify and address the root causes of the massive poverty and hardship in the country,” he said.
He also called for a comprehensive review of existing laws and the implementation of proactive policies to attract investment, create jobs, and foster economic growth.
Archbishop Martins stressed the need for significant investments in agriculture to ensure the availability of essential foodstuffs and reduce the soaring costs of staples such as rice, beans, and grains.
“If citizens have food in their homes, people will not endanger their lives while scrambling for palliatives,” he remarked.
In expressing solidarity with the families of those who lost their lives in recent stampedes, the Archbishop prayed for the souls of the deceased and offered comfort to grieving families.
“May Jesus, the Prince of Peace, bring solace to the afflicted, comfort to the grieving, and hope to the despairing,” he said.
Archbishop Martins also urged Nigerians to embrace the true spirit of Christmas by extending love and compassion to the less fortunate.
“This special season reminds us of the profound love of God, who sent His only Son to redeem humanity.
“As we gather with family and friends, let us not forget the vulnerable and the marginalized,” he said.
The Archbishop concluded by encouraging acts of charity, generosity, and solidarity as central to the Christmas celebration, urging all to reflect on the light of Christ and its transformative power in dispelling darkness and fostering hope.
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