- Says Nigerians face anxiety, uncertainty due to bad governance
The Association of Papal Knights and Medalists in Nigeria (APKMN) has issued a communique outlining resolutions from their 16th annual national conference. The conference, held from November 14 to 17, 2024, brought together members of the association from across the country and prominent clergy to reflect on their faith and role in society.
The resolutions emphasised the importance of upholding Catholic heritage, traditions, and practices, promoting new evangelisation, and renewing commitment to Catholic Social Teachings. The association also resolved to promote catechetical formation, safeguard the lives of children and youths, and defend the sacredness of life.
Furthermore, the conference emphasised the need to promote human dignity, equity, and justice, and to challenge structures that perpetuate poverty and servitude. The APKMN committed to collaborating with the Church to build genuine friendship and communion, and to give witness in the secular order without discrimination.
The 16th Annual National Conference of APKMN) highlighted the tremendous anxiety and uncertainty in Nigeria as citizens face challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and insecurity. According to the association, these issues stem from bad governance, leading to a high rate of crime among the youth, including fraud, money-making rituals, drug abuse, and trafficking.
The conference shared in the sorrow, pain, and hardship of Nigerians who continue to suffer marginalisation, exploitation, and economic deprivation. It was observed that secularisation and globalisation have led to the desacralisation of innate values, polarising the nation and exposing families to poverty, cynicism, capitalism, materialism, subjectivism, relativism, and despair. This has diminished the country’s witness value.
The urgent need for re-orientation and ethical and moral re-evaluation among the people and government was emphasised. The conference stressed the importance of upholding the rule of law, standing united, and working for the common good. The resolution called for a collective effort to address these challenges and create a better future for Nigerians.
Reviewing the State of the Nation, the conference brought attention to the pressing issues affecting Nigeria, and it is essential to continue the conversation and work towards finding solutions to these problems. By doing so, Nigerians can create a more just and prosperous society for all.
These resolutions demonstrate the association’s dedication to their faith and their commitment to making a positive impact in society. As Papal Knights and Medalists, they recognise their role as witnesses of Christ’s love and compassion, and are resolved to live out their faith in service to others.