Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has urged the federal government to prioritise policies aimed at promoting social and economic progress for Nigerians, particularly amid the current economic difficulties in the country.
In a keynote address delivered during the 5th Annual General Assembly of the Archdiocese of Abuja, Kaigama urged political leaders, particularly Catholics, to move beyond symbolic gestures and focus on real improvements that positively impact the citizens..
The archbishop raised concerns about the widening gap between the affluent and the impoverished, drawing attention to critical issues such as rising poverty, insecurity and the decline of essential infrastructure.
Kaigama stressed the urgent need for policies that tackle the high cost of living, enhance security, and address the neglect of vital public infrastructure.
He expressed profound concern for the plight of Nigerians, especially the vulnerable, in the context of the nation’s ongoing economic instability.
The Archbishop highlighted the responsibility of Catholics, particularly those involved in business and politics, to live out their faith actively by contributing to societal betterment.
He encouraged them to participate in the Church’s mission to expand and support its evangelisation efforts within the Archdiocese.
He urged all Catholics to deepen their spirituality and express their faith in ways that can transform both the Church and society, advocating for policies that uplift the most marginalised groups in the nation.
The Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, His Grace Most Rev. Michael Crotty, expressed honour at representing the Holy Father, highlighting his connection to the Archdiocese of Abuja as both a representative and a member of the faithful.
He expressed eagerness to learn more about the Archdiocese, visit its parishes and new pastoral areas, and engage with the faith community throughout his tenure.
Crotty described the assembly as a wonderful opportunity for the faithful to listen to God’s call, share their insights in faith, and discuss significant issues facing the Church.
While acknowledging societal challenges, such as faith crises, neo-paganism, and poverty, the Nuncio reminded the assembly of the church’s mission to serve as a beacon of hope, particularly for the suffering and marginalised.
He prayed for a spirit of synodality during the assembly, urging collective efforts to promote the Gospel in Abuja and across Nigeria.
The Nuncio also congratulated the Archbishop and the faithful of Abuja on the Fifth General Assembly, which coincides with the Archbishop’s five-year leadership anniversary.
The chairman of the Assembly, Mr Patrick Ojeka, explained the event’s significance as a moment for the Archdiocese to reflect on its achievements and outline its vision for the upcoming year.
He expressed gratitude to God for allowing the event to proceed despite delays from its initial August date.
Ojeka praised the Archdiocesan leadership for their visionary initiatives, including the establishment of 80 pastoral areas and the launch of transformative five-year projects, which he described as significant milestones for the Church.
He raised concerns about pressing issues facing the Archdiocese, such as the increasing “pentecostalization” within the Church, the prolonged duration of Sunday Masses, and the necessity for improved fundraising techniques during the annual Harvest Thanksgiving.
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