The Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Kwara and Bishop of the Diocese of New Bussa, Most Rev. Israel Afolabi Amoo, has expressed profound concern over the escalating insecurity, widespread poverty, and governance deficiencies in Nigeria. He warned that unless governments at all levels take decisive and immediate steps, these challenges could evolve into plagues that spread across the entire African continent.
Security Situation Alarming
Speaking during the Second Session of the Sixth Synod of the Diocese of New Bussa, held at St. John Church in New Bussa, Niger State, the cleric described the current security situation as alarming and a major threat to national development. He noted that insecurity has become pervasive, affecting all segments of society, including schools, religious institutions, businesses, and communities. Citizens increasingly live in fear of kidnappings, terrorism, armed robbery, and other violent crimes.
Amoo emphasized that the growing violence and disregard for the sanctity of human life have created an atmosphere unsuitable for economic growth and investment. He warned that no meaningful development can thrive in an environment characterized by fear and instability. He called on the Federal Government to strengthen security agencies through improved training, adequate funding, and the provision of modern equipment capable of combating increasingly sophisticated criminal networks operating across the country.
"The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government. A secure environment is fundamental to sustainable growth, development and national prosperity," he said.
Poverty and Economic Challenges
The Archbishop also lamented the paradox of widespread poverty in a nation endowed with vast human and natural resources. He stressed that economic growth has failed to translate into improved living conditions for many Nigerians. He urged the government to shift focus from what he described as a culture of sharing national resources to deliberate wealth creation through industrialization, value addition, and economic diversification.
"Establishing industries capable of processing local raw materials would not only create jobs but also stimulate exports, increase revenue generation and improve living standards across the country," he said. Amoo further advocated for policies that create an enabling environment for private sector investment, noting that increased industrial activity would enhance productivity and reduce unemployment.
Governance Failures
On governance, the cleric stated that persistent corruption, weak institutions, and poor service delivery have continued to undermine public confidence in government. He cited challenges in the power, education, healthcare, and infrastructure sectors as evidence of leadership failures, lamenting that many public institutions struggle with inadequate funding, poor facilities, and declining standards.
The Archbishop stressed the need for a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and merit-based appointments. He warned that the promotion of mediocrity in public service has weakened governance structures and hindered national progress. He also called for a reorientation of societal values, advocating leadership rooted in integrity, selflessness, and service to the people.
The church leader urged anti-corruption agencies and oversight institutions to remain independent, effective, and accountable in the discharge of their responsibilities. He maintained that Nigeria's development aspirations will remain unattainable without good governance, responsible leadership, and a collective commitment to justice, equity, and national unity.
The synod, themed "Godly Remnants" drawn from Isaiah 37:31-32, brought together clergy and lay delegates from across the Diocese of New Bussa to deliberate on spiritual and socio-economic issues affecting the church and the nation.
