The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged the new administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritise uniting Nigerians, improve infrastructure across the country, and strengthen the fight against corruption.
He made the call on Sunday in his homily at Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral, Abuja, where he spoke about the present divisions in the country.
“It is no secret that we are divided along ethnic, social, economic, and political lines; but we must strive harder to live out the spirit of our national motto, ‘unity and faith, peace and progress.
“Our leaders must take the lead in the pursuit of what unites, foster a true spirit of nationhood, good neighborliness and patriotism over sectional interests, ethnic loyalty, or religious myopia,” Kaigama said.
He also urged the federal government to address the recent fuel price increase due to the removal of petroleum subsidies, emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate the negative effects on the people.
The Archbishop recalled his recent experiences in Portugal and Spain, noting the contrast between the quality of infrastructure and security in those countries compared to Nigeria.
“While I was abroad, I had no experience of the failure of electricity; no water shortage; I saw good roads which lead to small settlements. I could leave for the airport at 2 am or 4 am with no slightest fear of being attacked by bandits or terrorists.
“Nigeria is unable to construct excellent hospitals and schools, and our leaders with the means are often seen patronizing these institutions abroad where things are working normally, instead of replicating the same facilities at home,” he said.
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