Most Rev. (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins, Archbishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos has urged Nigerian leaders to be more sensitive to the yearnings of the people for a better life. He stressed that the current state of the nation, plagued by widespread hunger, poverty, joblessness, and insecurity, demands urgent attention from those in power.
The Archbishop highlighted the importance of creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive, which would help reduce the high rate of unemployment and poverty. He emphasised that leaders must prioritise the welfare of citizens over personal and parochial interests.
In his Christmas message made available to the media by Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, Director of Social Communications, Archdiocese of Lagos, Archbishop Martins also cautioned that even policies with potential long-term benefits, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, floating of the naira, and new tax reforms, must consider the short-term negative effects on citizens’ welfare. He charged governments at both federal and state levels to factor these concerns into their planning and execution of policies.
He said, “Even in the face of policies that are deemed to have positive results on the long-term, such as the removal of fuel subsidies, the floating of the naira and the new tax reforms initiative, governments must ensure that the short-term negative effects of the policies on the immediate welfare of people are not neglected but factored into the planning and execution of such policies.
“This is necessary if the people for whom the policies are being made are not to die before the expected positive results begin to manifest. At the same time, government expenditures must also show to people that it is aware of the sufferings of the people and so it should be sensitive in the things it spends money on.
“In addition to this, it is necessary to provide an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and pay a lot more attention to the agricultural sector so that food security can be ensured.”
The prelate has oftentimes spoken on the need for effective leadership and governance in Nigeria. Previously, he has advocated for prudent leadership, criticising the excessive cost of governance and stressing the need for competent and efficient governance at all levels of government.
Expressing concern over 70 deaths of people who died in stampede while scrambling for food and palliatives in different parts of the country, Archbishop Martins also canvassed for the need for substantial investments in the agricultural sector to ensure food security. He said, “If citizens have food in their homes, people would not endanger their lives scrambling for palliatives in the way it has happened.”
While praying for the souls of those who died in the recent stampedes in parts of the country, he also commiserated with families who lost their loved ones, praying that Jesus, the Prince of Peace would bring solace to the afflicted, comfort to the grieving, and hope to the despairing.
To forestall the repeat of such ugly incidents, the prelate urged government at all levels, as well as the legislatures, to quickly identify and fix the loopholes in the polity that are responsible for breeding the massive poverty and hardship in Nigeria.
Archbishop Martins further expressed his heartfelt Christmas message to Nigerians sharing hope, joy and reminders of the true meaning of the season.
“This special season reminds us of the profound love of God, who sent His only Son to redeem humanity. May the light of Christ illuminate our lives, dispel darkness, and fill our hearts with love, compassion, and kindness. As we gather with family and friends, let us not forget those who are less fortunate, the vulnerable, and the marginalised. May our celebration be a catalyst for acts of charity, generosity, and solidarity.”
