Bishops to FG: Tackle poverty, insecurity

 THE Catholic Bishops of the Lagos Ecclesiastical Province have urged the Federal Government to shift from short-term palliative measures to sustainable empowerment strategies that would make life meaningful for the masses. 

Asking government at all levels to tackle the fundamental structures that have deepened inequality and poverty in the country, the bishops said there is a need to focus on long-term solutions that will empower Nigerians to achieve financial independence and dignity.

The bishops expressed their concern in a communiqué issued at the end of their first plenary meeting for 2025, which reflected on issues affecting the church and the nation.

The meeting, which comprises Lagos Archdiocese, Ijebu Ode and Abeokuta Dioceses, was held at St. Agnes Catholic Church, Maryland in Lagos at the weekend.

The communiqué, which was signed by the Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Martins, as chairman and the Archbishop of Ijebu Ode, Most Rev. Francis Adesina, as secretary, urged government officials to lead with integrity, honesty, justice, equality, and the fear of God. 

It reads: “The economy struggles with rising inflation, unemployment, and a widening gap between the rich and the poor have among other things led to the tragic loss of life of over 100 people in December last year as they struggled to access palliatives. This tragedy underscores the need to bring about a change from the 'palliative mentality' to an 'empowerment culture.' This approach will restore citizens’ dignity and pride and help to achieve a genuine reduction of the rate of poverty.

“Furthermore, government officials, civil society organization, the organized private sector, and indeed all citizens must collaborate to promote transparency, accountability, and good governance. By working together, we can build a country that is equitable and prosperous."

Culled from Vanguard