SENIOR CAC PASTOR, STEPHEN OLUWATOYIN AJAYI PhD CONGRATULATES NIGERIANS, URGES GOVERNMENT TO ADDRESS ECONOMIC HARDSHIP

 

A Senior Pastor in the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) hierarchy and DCC Superintendent, Pastor Dr. Stephen Oluwatoyin Ajayi, has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary, while urging governments at all levels to intensify efforts towards alleviating the economic hardship confronting citizens.

Pastor Ajayi, who made the call while fielding questions from journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, appealed to the Federal, State and Local Governments to implement sustainable policies, programmes and palliative measures aimed at mitigating the effects of economic hardship, hunger, poverty and unemployment across the country.

The senior cleric expressed concern over the difficult economic conditions experienced by millions of Nigerians, particularly following the removal of the fuel subsidy on May 29, 2023. According to him, the consequent increase in the cost of petroleum products has significantly affected household incomes, transportation, businesses and other aspects of socio-economic life.

While acknowledging the resilience of Nigerians in confronting the various challenges associated with rising petroleum prices and the broader economic difficulties, Pastor Ajayi maintained that citizens should not be left to bear the burden of economic reforms without adequate institutional support.

He therefore called on the three tiers of government to introduce and sustain effective social intervention programmes that would cushion the effects of economic hardship, particularly among vulnerable members of society.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 66 years of independence, Pastor Ajayi observed that the country still faces significant developmental challenges despite its vast human and natural resources.

He expressed concern that poverty remains widespread and that the nation continues to grapple with structural challenges that have constrained its socio-economic development. He, however, noted that Nigeria possesses sufficient human and material resources to transform its developmental trajectory if those resources are strategically harnessed and effectively managed.

The CAC cleric consequently urged the nation’s authorities to prioritise the utilisation of Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources for national development and improved quality of life for citizens.

Pastor Ajayi also called for intensified efforts to address insecurity, banditry, kidnapping, unemployment, violent killings and hunger, describing these challenges as issues requiring urgent and coordinated governmental intervention.

He further appealed to religious organisations and faith-based institutions to sustain their prayers for the nation, particularly as Nigeria gradually approaches the 2027 general elections.

On the political environment, the senior cleric urged politicians and political actors to adhere to democratic principles and conduct their activities within the bounds of the law. He cautioned against political extremism, inflammatory rhetoric and character assassination during political campaigns, stressing the importance of peaceful and issue-based political engagement.

Pastor Ajayi emphasised that political leadership should be pursued through legitimate democratic processes rather than through coercion or violence. He encouraged political actors to place the national interest above personal or partisan considerations and to contribute to the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

He concluded by praying for divine wisdom and guidance for Nigeria’s leaders, urging them to govern with the fear of God, integrity and a strong sense of responsibility to the Nigerian people.

According to him, effective leadership, responsible governance, prudent management of national resources and sustained commitment to the welfare of citizens remain essential to building a more peaceful, prosperous and equitable Nigeria.