By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful as the nation works toward an economic turnaround.
Speaking after a Christmas service at the Anglican Church, Marina, Lagos, he reassured of his government’s commitment to improving lives despite prevailing hardships.
“We cannot afford to throw in the towel now,” the governor stated. “Yes, the removal of fuel subsidies has caused an increase in prices, but we’re seeing positive signs of recovery. Food prices have begun to come down, and I believe the Federal Government’s promise of a prosperous 2025 will be fulfilled. We’re committed to providing opportunities for businesses, creating jobs, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.”
Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the difficulties Nigerians are experiencing but emphasised government’s efforts to mitigate the impact of economic challenges.
“We have intervened in more ways than expected to address these issues. In Lagos, we are focused on ensuring the safety of lives and property while fulfilling our promises in sectors like health, education, and transportation,” he said.
He also urged Lagosians to maintain peace and harmony during this festive season. “Let the teachings of Christmas guide us to be our brothers’ keepers. As a government, we will continue to create an environment where businesses can thrive and ensure the security and well-being of our people,” he added.
Echoing Sanwo-Olu’s sentiments, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Dr. Oliver Ali Abah, encouraged Nigerians to trust in God and remain steadfast in their faith. He reminded citizens that the essence of Christmas is love, sacrifice, and hope.
“God gave His Son as a living sacrifice to bring man back to Him and to assure us of eternal life,” the prelate said. “As Christians, we are called to live pure and righteous lives, striving daily toward perfection. Challenges will come, but they are not permanent. Let us trust God and remain patient with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.”
Dr. Abah compared the nation’s current struggles to a woman in labor, emphasising the need for patience to bring forth a better future. “A woman in labor endures pain for the joy of delivering her child. Similarly, we must endure these challenges, trusting that the President has Nigeria’s best interests at heart.”
He attributed food shortages and economic difficulties to insecurity in certain regions, where farmers are unable to work their lands safely. “If insecurity were not an issue, we would have an abundance of food,” he said. “Farmers in states like Benue have been devastated by violence, preventing them from contributing to the nation’s food supply.”
Despite the challenges, Dr. Abah expressed optimism about Nigeria’s potential. He cited America’s journey from adversity to global prominence as an example of what Nigeria could achieve. “Nigeria has what it takes to be respected worldwide,” he said. “We are a populous and resourceful nation with immense value to offer the world. Let us pray and remain hopeful as we work toward a better future.”
The Archbishop of the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Right Reverend Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi, called on Nigerians to be patient and prayerful and urged the leaders to address the economic hardships faced by citizens, particularly the high cost of food.
“The suffering in the country is immense. Our leaders must take steps to alleviate this burden and ensure that 2025 brings hope and prosperity. By doing so, they can earn the genuine trust and support of Nigerians.”
The archbishop emphasised the importance of peace and unity, urging citizens to pray for their leaders and support their efforts to improve the nation. “Hope and prayer are key in these times. Let us continue to trust in God’s guidance and remain united in our pursuit of a better Nigeria,” he said.
Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in recent stampedes across the country. She acknowledged that the tragedies were a result of poor planning and pledged that the government would do better in the future.
“We deeply regret the incidents and extend our sympathies to the affected families. Moving forward, events will be better organized to prevent agitation and desperation among attendees. We have learned our lesson and will ensure that such tragedies do not happen again.”
Orelope-Adefulire assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to peace and progress. “As a nation, we are determined to create a safer and more prosperous environment for all. Let us trust in God’s plan for Nigeria and work together to achieve lasting peace and development,” she added.