Politics
Kaigama Urges Leaders To Tackle Poverty, Injustice With Decisive Actions
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Revd.Ignatius Kaigama, has challenged Nigerian leaders to confront rising poverty, hunger, and inequality with sincerity and decisive action, warning against indifference to the plight of citizens.
He gave the task on Sunday during a homily at St. Catherine’s Pastoral Area, Giri Gauta, to mark the Fifth Sunday of Easter and the community’s fifth anniversary in Abuja.
Kaigama said the worsening socio-economic conditions in the country demand urgent, people-centered leadership.
“Our leaders must think of good solutions to our social and political problems rather than becoming infuriated when there is an outcry that the cost of living is very high and there is hunger, poverty, and insecurity in the land,” he said.
Drawing parallels with the early Church in the Acts of the Apostles, the Archbishop noted that complaints of marginalisation should not be ignored but addressed with fairness and transparency.
“When the Hellenists complained, the apostles did not ignore them,” he said. “They ensured that the practical needs were addressed by appointing men full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom,” he said.
He lamented that many Nigerians today feel abandoned, likening their situation to that of neglected widows in the early Church.
“Many feel like the Hellenist widows overlooked, hungry, and wondering if anyone sees their plight or cares,” he said.
Kaigama warned against tokenistic interventions, stressing that short-term relief without sustainable solutions only deepens public frustration.
“They divert what is meant for the people and expect them to clap when, now and again, they drop tokens of foodstuff, without any long-term strategy to reduce poverty and hunger,” he said.
The cleric also called for integrity in public service, insisting that those entrusted with responsibility must prioritize the common good.
“Those in positions of service are called to be good deacons; to serve and not to exploit the poor masses by taking from what is due to them,” Kaigama stated.
On the role of citizens, Kaigama urged Nigerians to show solidarity and responsibility towards one another.
“Every Nigerian must look out for the neighbour who hasn’t eaten, advocate for the marginalized, and ensure fairness in the distribution of resources,” he said.
He also emphasized the importance of dialogue in resolving tensions, warning against violence and divisiveness.
“Where there are disagreements, we must seek ways to resolve them and not resort to fighting or quarrels at the slightest provocation,” he said.
Despite the challenges facing the country, the Archbishop encouraged Nigerians to remain hopeful and grounded in faith.
“Do not let your hearts be troubled,” he said, quoting from the Gospel. “We must hold on to hope, even in difficult times.”
Earlier, Kaigama commended the growth of St. Catherine’s Pastoral Area, describing its development as a sign of strong faith and community commitment.
He also celebrated the confirmation of 93 parishioners during the Mass.
He concluded with a call for national renewal anchored on justice, equity, and shared responsibility.
