Department of Church and Society, CSN

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day, Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, has called on the country’s political leaders to prioritize alleviating the suffering of citizens. The Archbishop expressed concern over the current economic challenges and the persistence of insecurity across the nation, urging leaders to create a conducive environment for businesses to flourish and to protect lives and properties.

In a statement signed by Rev. Fr. Anthony Godonu, Director of Social Communications for the Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Archbishop Adewale criticized the inability of successive governments to address issues such as corruption, banditry, and nepotism. He called for an end to these practices, which he said are eroding the values upon which Nigeria was founded.

“At 64, many parts of the country are still under constant attacks by bandits and kidnappers while corrupt activities continue unabated,” the Archbishop said. “We urge our political leaders to rise up to the challenges of building a nation free from corruption, nepotism, ethnicity, and favoritism – a truly progressive country that we all can be proud of.”

Archbishop Adewale also wished Nigerians a happy Independence Day, encouraging them to remain law-abiding, prayerful, and committed to transforming Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape.