The former Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has urged for a comprehensive review of national policies to alleviate the economic challenges currently facing the country......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Onaiyekan expressed concerns about the country’s situation in an interview with reporters on the sidelines of the ‘Marian Concert’ held in Abuja to celebrate the 2024 Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
The event, titled “The Four Dogmas of the Blessed Virgin Mary,” was organized by the Madonna Choir of St. Charles Lwanga Parish and its partner societies.
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Cardinal Onaiyekan called on Nigerians to continue to pray for leaders at all levels, hoping that they will make informed decisions to address the nation’s economic strains.
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However, he stressed the urgent need to revise policies contributing to widespread poverty, noting the adverse impact on the middle class and the increasing impoverishment of many citizens.
He remarked, “There is a limit to what that people can handle. You can’t tell someone to be patient with poverty while we see the people who are supposed to address our poverty, live flamboyantly, building huge mansions and having fleets of cars without caring how they are fueled whereas, the rest of us are queuing to get a few litres of fuel.”
The cardinal further called for governance marked by justice and equity to ensure a fair distribution of national resources.
He also prayed that, through the intercession of Mother Mary, the Queen of Peace and Queen of Nigeria, the nation would achieve peace and prosperity for all its citizens.
In support of the message, Rev. Fr. Thomas Edogbanya, the Parish Priest, encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful despite the nation’s difficulties.
Reflecting on the life of Mary who faced numerous challenges but maintained unwavering faith and hope, he reassured the faithful that just as Mary’s nativity brings hope, the future holds promise for citizens.
