Nigerian Anglican bishops warn of economic hardship, urge hope

Anglican Bishop Olusola Odedeji, head of the Lagos West diocese, said Nigeria’s economy is in deep trouble, citing a sharp drop in the naira’s value and a severe loss of purchasing power. He linked the hardship to ongoing government reforms and warned that insecurity—particularly the danger of travel between Lagos and Ibadan—adds to the public’s anxiety. Odedeji urged President Bola Tinubu to step up security efforts while praising Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu for his contributions to safety and development.

Bishop Sunday Aborisade, the Archbishop of Abuja, echoed similar concerns, describing widespread hunger, poverty and insecurity. He called on the Anglican Church to act as a “beacon of hope,” urging leaders to provide moral guidance and encourage civic participation despite the nation’s challenges.