The Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Olusola Odedeji, has expressed concern over Nigeria’s worsening economic situation while assuring citizens that the country will eventually overcome its current challenges.
The bishop made the remarks during his presidential address at the Third Session of the Ninth Synod of the Diocese held at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church.
Speaking on the state of the economy, Bishop Odedeji said Nigerians are struggling with declining purchasing power and the continuous depreciation of the naira. According to him, many citizens now fear checking their phones because of numerous financial requests and hardship affecting families across the country.
Despite the difficult conditions, the cleric maintained that the economic hardship is part of an ongoing reform process and expressed optimism that Nigeria would recover in the near future.
He noted that many developed countries currently attracting Nigerian migrants also experienced similar difficult periods before ilising economically. According to him, the situation in Nigeria is temporary and the country will eventually “get out of the woods.”
The bishop also raised concerns over insecurity, lamenting that even travelling between Lagos and Ibadan now creates fear among citizens because of safety concerns. He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts toward improving national security and protecting lives and property.
Odedeji, however, commended the Lagos State Government for its efforts in promoting development and maintaining safety in the state. He specifically praised Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu for supporting the Anglican Church, especially in resolving land related issues and assisting the diocese’s “City of God” project.
Reflecting on the synod theme, “Who Is on the Lord’s Side,” the bishop urged Nigerians to embrace moral values, righteousness and spiritual discipline, stressing that society is constantly confronted with choices between good and evil.
Governor Sanwo Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu Hundeyin, also praised the Anglican Church for its contributions to education, healthcare and social development in Nigeria.
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