Christmas: Archbishop Martins Urges Nigerians To Tackle Violence With Courage

Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Alfred Adewale Martins, has called on Nigerians not to entertain any fear or despair, irrespective of the nation’s growing security and socio-economic challenges, urging citizens to draw renewed hope from the message of Christmas.

He expressed the need to give thanks to God for the joy of celebrating another Christmas despite the many challenges that we face individually and as a country.

The Archbishop, in a solemn and urgent Christmas message, declared that Nigeria is right in the middle of a tide of criminal violence, fear, and a feeling of despair among many citizens.
He called for people not to lose hope but live in the hope that can be assured only by God himself, the one in whom hope does not disappoint.

As we hope in God, he said, “We must also insist that everyone, especially those in government at all levels and all politicians, should work intentionally, to generate hope in our people; not simply by empty platitudes, but in courageous and meaningful action to stem the tide of fear and criminal activities in the land.”

He lamented that the government has not done enough to provide the most fundamental assurance to its citizens: the hope of a secure and dignified future.

Archbishop Martins said, “while we are not oblivious of the efforts being made by the government, we must also admit that the present reality of insecurity and pervasive fear has made it almost impossible for the average Nigerian to thrive or even dream with confidence.

“We must continue to challenge the nation’s leadership to bring an end to the kidnappings and killings urgently, and so give assurance to communities of people who feel that they are being targeted and under siege by criminal elements in the country. Our citizens do not need mere promises but decisive action that secures our farms, our roads, our schools, and our places of worship. After all is said and done, the primary duty of the state is to protect the life and property of its citizens.”

The Archbishop urged Nigerians not to succumb to despair and despondency, saying that “the coming of Christ at Christmas is God’s definitive entry into a world of struggle and a potent intervention in human history. So, our hope is not a distant reality, but a call to embody His presence here and now as we show love, empathy, and kindness towards one another, especially those who are most in need among us. We must all remember that the true essence of this season lies in a selflessness that fights for justice, a humility that serves the broken among us, and a love that dismantles walls of division.”