By Godsgift Olubori
Onaiyekan is calling for a policy review to alleviate economic hardship. This implies that he believes current policies are contributing to the economic struggles and that revisions are necessary to improve the situation. Specifically, he may be advocating for changes that address issues such as unemployment, inflation, or income inequality [no specific source available, please provide more context or information about Onaiyekan’s statement for a more accurate response
John Onaiyekan, a Nigerian Catholic cardinal and former Archbishop of Abuja. Born in 1944, he was elevated to cardinal in 2012. Onaiyekan has been an influential voice in Nigerian society, advocating for interfaith dialogue, peace, and social justice.Onaiyekan has promoted understanding and cooperation between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria.He has spoken out on issues like poverty, inequality, and good governance.
Peacebuilding: Onaiyekan has worked to resolve conflicts and promote peace in Nigeria.As a respected religious leader, Onaiyekan’s opinions carry weight, and his call for policy review to address economic hardship reflects his concern for the well-being of Nigerians.Cardinal John Onaiyekan, former Archbishop of Abuja, urges policymakers to reassess and adjust economic strategies to alleviate Nigeria’s current financial struggles. He made this appeal during an interview at the 2024 Marian Concert in Abuja, celebrating the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
This message resonates with the Christian Association of Nigeria’s (CAN) appeal for unity and the Sultan’s charge to leaders to address economic hardship . It’s clear that prominent leaders across various faiths and sectors are advocating for thoughtful leadership, empathy, and collective action to navigate Nigeria’s current challenges.A nation governed with fairness and justice fosters peace. Effective leadership ensures equitable distribution of resources, where everyone has access to their fair share, rather than equal shares. This means recognizing individual differences while promoting balance and inclusivity”The public’s tolerance has a threshold. It’s unacceptable to expect people to endure poverty while those in power, tasked with addressing it, display extravagant wealth, building grand mansions and owning multiple cars, oblivious to the fuel scarcity affecting ordinary citizens.”
He emphasized the urgent need to reassess and reform policies that perpetuate unprecedented poverty and hardship. Previously unfamiliar levels of economic struggle have erased the middle class, leaving virtually everyone vulnerable to poverty.”
Policies need urgent review.
Widespread economic struggle.
Unprecedented poverty levels.
Middle class eradicated.
As we celebrate the Marian Concert, we offer special prayers that Mother Mary, the embodiment of peace and patroness of Nigeria, will intercede and guide our nation towards harmony. May her blessings enable Nigerians to coexist peacefully and reap the blessings God has bestowed upon our country.”
The key message is that, no matter the difficulties you face, seeking the Blessed Virgin Mary’s intercession can bring solutions. I urge everyone: when challenged, turn to the rosary and our Blessed Mother’s powerful intercession. Seek her guidance and solace through prayer.”
Seek Blessed Virgin Mary’s intercession for solutions.
- Trust in the rosary’s power.
- Encouragement to pray and seek guidance.
- Faith in our Blessed Mother’s loving support. Just as Mother Mary intervened at the Wedding of Cana, she will intercede for you too. I personally attest to the power of her intervention, having experienced it firsthand.