The Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has told Nigerian leaders to embrace selfless sacrifice and prioritize the welfare of citizens to address the nation’s growing socio-economic and security challenges.
While highlighting the need for leadership that understands and addresses the struggles of ordinary people, he called on Nigerians to spend wisely during the Christmas.
Speaking at a state-of-the-nation press briefing in Abuja ahead of the Christmas celebration, Ndukuba said
hunger and food insecurity were emphasized as pressing concerns, worsened by insecurity that has prevented farmers from accessing their fields.
The Primate called for immediate solutions to ensure food security while acknowledging the hardships faced by families due to economic reforms such as the removal of the fuel subsidy.
According to him, the drastic rise in fuel prices and inflation has strained the ability of many households to meet their basic needs, particularly during the festive season.
The Primate attributed these challenges to systemic corruption and greed, which he described as the root causes of Nigeria’s struggles.
He called on leaders to prioritize the common good and adopt a spirit of service, drawing inspiration from the Christmas message of sacrifice and love.
Ndukuba also lauded the resilience of Nigerians, whom he described as enduring economic hardships with hope and perseverance.
He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms could yield positive results by 2025, provided corruption is addressed and policies are effectively implemented.
In addition to addressing leadership, the Primate appealed to citizens to demonstrate greater patriotism and unity.
He urged the National Orientation Agency to intensify efforts in educating and mobilizing Nigerians to foster a collective vision for national development.
Above all, Ndukuba called for moderation in Christmas celebrations, encouraging citizens to live within their means while focusing on the essence of the season: love, sharing, and supporting one another.
Despite the challenges, he reaffirmed his faith in Nigeria’s potential for transformation, urging both leaders and citizens to work together for a better future.
Ndukuba’s said, “Leaders have not incarnated the experiences of the citizens and thus do not understand our pains. This disconnect stems from a failure of our collective values as a nation, with leadership perceived as a chance to amass wealth rather than serve.
“Leadership should also learn to work with citizens. God could have proclaimed mercy from Heaven, forgiving sins and binding Satan, yet He chose to become man through the incarnation. This demonstrates that true leadership, even by God, is an incarnational experience.
“We know the situation in Nigeria today is challenging, and some families may lack the usual rice and meat to celebrate. So, let’s make use of what we have.
“Some may say Christmas is a day’s celebration, but its lessons should last a lifetime. This is why we must use what God has given us to care for one another and glorify God.
“We are not so poor that we cannot care for others. Let us share even the little we have, demonstrating the love we have received from God’s gift of His Son.
“Nigeria is not poor; it suffers from greed manifesting as corruption. Unless we address this, no matter our religiosity, Nigeria will remain vulnerable.
“We trust in God for a change of heart, asking that both citizens and leaders learn the lessons of love, care, and support for one another.
“Let us spend wisely. If you have the means, be merry; if not, please endure. Let us be moderate. Let Christmas be celebrated with Christ at the centre, focusing on prayer, sharing God’s love, and supporting one another, especially those who are disadvantaged.
“Let me say that Nigeria is making progress, but I must clarify that the pains are still very much with us… While such changes are being initiated, it may take time for them to genuinely impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
“We trust that, by the grace of God, solutions will emerge over time. We see troubling occurrences among our politicians and the extent of their corruption. This situation in Nigeria demands sacrifice, and I trust that our leaders will be willing to make sacrifices for the greater good, just as God was willing to give His only begotten Son for humanity.”
Friday Olokor
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