The Anglican Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, has called on the federal government to urgently address the soaring cost of living in the country, particularly food inflation, which has become a significant burden for ordinary Nigerians.
Speaking at the ordination and Thanksgiving Service marking the 35th anniversary of the Abuja Diocese, held at the Cathedral Church of Advent, Life Camp Abuja, Bishop Akinfenwa expressed deep concern over the economic hardship facing the citizens.
The event also celebrated the achievements of the Abuja Diocese and its significant contribution to the Anglican community, which led to the establishment of two other dioceses: Gwagwalada and Kubwa.
Bishop Akinfenwa acknowledged the challenges faced by the current administration, noting that while the government inherited numerous issues, urgent and effective action must be taken to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
“The current situation is becoming unbearable for the citizens,” he stated, emphasizing that the high cost of living has made it increasingly difficult for many families to afford basic necessities such as food and education.
The Bishop highlighted the distress faced by ordinary Nigerians, with many struggling to provide for their families and send their children to school, while small-scale businesses are collapsing under the weight of the economic strain.
“We must find a way out of this situation,” Akinfenwa said, underscoring the need for more than just short-term solutions, such as palliative measures. He called for a long-term approach that would focus on empowering the country’s youth, particularly by engaging them in agriculture, which could help alleviate food inflation and boost local production.
Bishop Akinfenwa stressed the importance of involving youths in farming, stating that this could not only address the high cost of food in the market but also provide employment opportunities and reduce the number of young people on the streets.
“The future of the country depends on our ability to engage and empower the younger generation,” he added.
In his address to the newly ordained priests, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion, Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, urged them to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ and prioritize the welfare of their congregants.
He also expressed optimism that through diligent work and a commitment to promoting religious harmony, the newly ordained priests would contribute to peace and unity in the country.
The service marked the culmination of several events celebrating the 35th anniversary of the Abuja Diocese, a milestone that highlighted the growth and development of the Anglican Church in Nigeria.
The anniversary also recognized the role the Diocese has played in establishing the Gwagwalada and Kubwa dioceses, furthering the reach and influence of the Church.
As the country grapples with rising living costs, Bishop Akinfenwa’s call for urgent government action and youth engagement in agriculture serves as a timely reminder of the need for a comprehensive approach to solving Nigeria’s economic challenges.
