The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Baptist Conference has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to take immediate and decisive action to address the worsening hunger crisis affecting millions of Nigerians. This plea was made during the church conference’s 10th-anniversary celebration in Abuja over the weekend, where church leaders voiced their concerns about the growing wealth gap between the political elites and the ordinary citizens struggling to survive.
Reverend Dr. Israel Akanji, President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, alongside Reverend Dr. Dogara Raphael Gwana, President of the FCT Baptist Conference, condemned the stark contrast in living standards. They expressed deep concern about the dire situation facing millions of Nigerians, particularly the increasing number of people who are on the brink of starvation.
Reverend Akanji, while addressing the congregation, stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive response from the government to alleviate the hunger crisis. According to him, many Nigerians are suffering, struggling to afford even the most basic necessities. He called for immediate measures that would directly impact the lives of ordinary people, particularly those living in poverty-stricken areas.
“Many Nigerians are facing severe hunger and desperate circumstances. While we appreciate the government’s current measures, more needs to be done,” Reverend Akanji said. “The government must take immediate action to support our farmers, provide better healthcare, and improve access to education, so that people can live with dignity.”
Akanji’s call for increased subsidies for education and improved healthcare access resonates with the growing concerns of many Nigerians, especially those who feel the burden of rising costs of living. He also highlighted the struggles of farmers who are increasingly facing conflicts and natural disasters, which have severely impacted agricultural production.
“Nigeria has the capacity to produce enough food to feed itself and even export to other nations. We must focus on inclusive policies that empower all citizens,” Reverend Akanji added, stressing the need for the government to take responsibility for its people’s welfare, especially in the agriculture sector, which remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
Another key issue raised by the Baptist leaders was the extravagant lifestyles of political elites, which stand in stark contrast to the suffering of ordinary Nigerians. Reverend Akanji condemned the lavish allowances and perks enjoyed by politicians while millions of citizens struggle with poverty and hunger.
“The wealth gap in our country is widening, and this is causing deep frustration among the people. While some people live in luxury, millions are struggling to survive. This must change,” Reverend Akanji remarked.
He urged the government to take a more responsible approach to governance, ensuring that public funds are used effectively to benefit the wider population, especially those who are most vulnerable.
The statement from the Baptist leaders comes at a time when there is growing public dissatisfaction with the state of the economy and the government’s handling of key issues such as unemployment, inflation, and insecurity. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration with the lack of tangible improvements in their daily lives, despite promises made by political leaders.
The 10th-anniversary celebration of the FCT Baptist Conference was not only an opportunity to address the urgent issues facing the nation but also a time to reflect on the growth and impact of the church. Reverend Dr. Gwana, the President of the conference, spoke about the tremendous progress made since its establishment in 2015.
“Though we are only ten years old, we have achieved significant milestones. Our faith and dedication will continue to drive our impact in the years ahead,” Reverend Gwana said, encouraging members to remain committed to spreading the gospel and serving their communities.