The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Alfred Martins, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and political leaders nationwide to focus on restoring hope and alleviating the burdens of Nigerians in the year 2024.
Expressing concern over the hardships faced by millions during the election year of 2023, the Archbishop emphasized the pressing need for governments at all levels, irrespective of party affiliations, to enact policies that alleviate the suffering of the majority.
In a statement, Archbishop Martins highlighted the adverse effects of rising fuel prices, currency devaluation, and the resulting decline in purchasing power, leading to immense challenges for Nigerians.
He stressed the urgency for policies aimed at revitalizing the economy and providing relief for the impoverished masses.
“The increase in pump price of petroleum products and the drastic loss in the value of the naira, among other factors, have grossly affected the purchasing power of most Nigerians who are finding it increasingly difficult to survive. This alongside insecurity in the country has pushed the best brains in the country to yield to the Japa syndrome. Those of us who remain are struggling to breathe, as they say. This is unacceptable. As we begin the year 2024, we call on government, at all levels, to focus on policies that would help to rejig the economy and bring solace to the impoverished masses. Government must listen to the cries of poor Nigerians,” he emphasized.
The Archbishop called upon President Tinubu, state governors, and lawmakers to lead by example, advocating for a reduction in governance costs and curbing unnecessary expenditures, such as extravagant vehicle purchases for officials and extensive international delegations at the government’s expense.
He further urged collaboration between Nigerians and their leaders for peace and economic stability in the coming year.
Additionally, he appealed to the government to promptly resolve wage-related issues affecting Nigerian workers, notably Resident Doctors and University lecturers.
Archbishop Martins concluded by congratulating Nigerians for entering a new year, encouraging hope and positivity for a prosperous 2024 while expressing prayers for a fruitful and peaceful year for all citizens.
