Politics
THE Bishop of the Ibadan Anglican Diocese, Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa, has urged Nigerians to embrace a stronger productivity culture as they enter 2025.
Akinfenwa gave the advice in his Christmas message, which was made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Wednesday.
He urged Nigerians never to lose hope but to prepare to embrace the new season of abundance coming for the nation in 2025.
“It is therefore necessary for us to begin to position ourselves (spiritually and psychologically) to make the best use of the new possibilities God will offer the nation in the nearest future.
“We urge all to spend this season in deep spiritual introspection; listening to the Lord for insight on what should be our respective roles in the new Nigeria that shall soon emerge.
“So, it’s a call for improved productivity, as God’s word says the Lord shall bless our handworks while the lazy ones will go hungry.
“Notwithstanding the myriad systemic shortfalls in our nation in all sectors, Nigerians should embrace a stronger culture of productivity,” he said.
Akinfenwa advised governments at all levels to prioritise policies and projects that stimulate the real economy and promote job creation.
“As we celebrate Christmas, we should remember that the incarnation of Jesus Christ birthed new hope for all humanity.
“Therefore, let us in the spirit of Christmas embrace hope in God, knowing that men may fail but God will never fail us,” he said.
According to the Anglican bishop, the security problems bedevilling the land are yet to be fully abated.
He, therefore, enjoined the government and citizens to be more security conscious and never to allow the seeds of criminality to thrive in their communities.
Akinfenwa prayed for God’s comfort upon all who lost their lives in various mishaps across the nation and in Ibadan.
While commending Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State for the recent upgrade of roads in the state, he appealed to citizens to embrace good driving habits.
He further urged the rich not to indulge in a lavish display of wealth but to endeavour to put smiles on the faces of the poor, especially at such a time. (NAN)
A.I
Dec. 25, 2024
Tags: Most Rev. Joseph Akinfenwa
