Methodist Council of Bishops Task FG to Alleviate Economic Difficulties, Promote Stability

The Methodist Church of Nigeria Council of Bishops has urged the Federal Government to focus on solutions and take decisive action to alleviate economic difficulties and promote stability.
His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba (JP), Prelate, Methodist Church of Nigeria, and Chairman of the council, who made the call, also expressed deep concern over the recent suspension of democratic structures in Rivers State.
The clergymen also commended the Federal Government for assenting to the new tax reform bill, aimed at improving the nation’s tax framework, and advised the Federal Government to ensure the full implementation of the tax reform bill.
The commendation followed the 42nd Methodist Church of Nigeria Council of Bishops conference held in Abuja between June 30 to July 7,
He said that its implementation would enhance revenue generation, promote economic growth, and foster a more business-friendly environment.
The council also commended the Federal Government initiatives aimed at empowering the youth and supporting vulnerable populations, as well as its efforts to drive infrastructure development.
Aba said that the current economic landscape posed significant challenges, with inflation reaching unsustainable levels and unfavourable economic indicators resulting in increased hardship for many Nigerians.
“In the light of these challenges, council urges the government to focus on solutions and take decisive action to alleviate economic difficulties and promote stability.
” Council expresses deep concern over the recent suspension of democratic structures in Rivers State, leading to the installation of a Sole Administrator.
“While acknowledging the Federal Government’s efforts to prevent a complete breakdown of law and order, council emphasises the need for any solution that align and safeguards democratic governance,” he said.
Aba also condemned the increasing incidents of kidnapping, banditry, invasion, and violent clashes between the herdsmen and farmers in Benue, Plateau and other parts of the country, which he said had resulted in sacking of many communities.
He however, commended the valiant efforts of the security agencies, while also expressing deep concern and urged the Federal Government to take decisive and concerted action to address the root causes of these security challenges.
Aba called on government to support the states under security threat, by bringing perpetrators of violence to justice and provide security for people in the camp of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and effort to return them back to their homes.
“The council noted with concern, the collapse of CBEX, a prominent digital trading platform, which has resulted in significant financial losses for unsuspecting members of the public, with far-reaching adverse effects on the economy.
“Council strongly urges the Nigerians Securities and Exchange Commission to intensify its regulatory oversight of digital trading platforms and take decisive action against non-compliant operators.
“As we navigate the complexities of modern life, council encourages citizens to attend to their health and well-being by adopting regular exercise routines, undergoing periodic medical checks, and maintaining a balanced diet.
“In light of improving the healthcare and infrastructure within the country, council advocates for increased attention to personal health and mental wellness,” Aba said.
He also expressed deep concern over the escalating unemployment rate, particularly among graduates, saying that the trend had diverted youthful energies into activities that threatened social order.
Aba said that to mitigate this trend, council urged immediate action to address unemployment, ensure timely payment of salaries, and promote decent work conditions to safeguard national stability and security.
He also encouraged the government to prioritise effective governance at the local level, given its critical role in serving the needs of local communities.
The clergy said that local governments were uniquely positioned to address essential public services, including sanitation, waste management, road maintenance, clean water provision, market facilities, and basic security.
The council recommended that local government chairmen be held accountable for the allocation and deployment of Federal funds, thereby promoting transparency and good governance.
Aba said that as the nation looked to the future, council urged President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to prioritise economic reforms, security overhaul, and national cohesion as they continued to manage the affairs of the nation.
He therefore prayed for wisdom, guidance, and divine favour to rest upon them as they lead the country.
The clergy man said that the Methodist Bishop council joined the Universal Church in commiserate with Roman Catholic church worldwide on the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a “leader whose legacy will continue to be remembered in generation to come”.
He congratulated the new Pope, Leo XIV, and prayed for God’s guidance as he led the church.