The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has voiced concerns that Nigeria’s ongoing issues of corruption, dishonesty, and self-centeredness will render any efforts to create Regional Governments futile.
In his homily at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Parish in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja, where he conferred the Sacrament of Confirmation on over 200 parishioners, Kaigama stressed that addressing the root causes of bad governance is crucial for any meaningful progress.
Kaigama explained that “Currently, people are talking of creating regional governments. If we carry this attitude of dishonesty, bribery and self-centeredness with us, we can have as many regions as we like, we will only multiply corruption, poverty and injustice. If you divide Nigeria into fifty States and the issue of corruption is not addressed, we are wasting our time. We must pray, prayer is more powerful, let us emulate Jesus Christ, we must change our orientation.”
The Archbishop expressed deep concern over the dire economic conditions faced by many Nigerians, highlighting the severe levels of poverty that prevent most people from having a square meal each day. He urged national leaders to move beyond personal gains and focus on solving pressing issues like poverty, insecurity, and kidnapping, rather than indulging in luxurious lifestyles that exacerbate the suffering of the masses.
Kaigama encouraged the suffering populace to remain hopeful and strong in faith despite the pervasive violence and instability, emphasizing that even under poor governance, the people’s resilience and trust in God remain a source of strength.
In his sermon, centered on the theme, “In His Love and Providence God does not abandon us!” Kaigama reflected on the Readings from Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24; 2 Cor. 8:7.9.13-15; and Mark 5:21-43. He spoke about the profound Christian virtues of faith and solidarity, drawing parallels between contemporary suffering and the biblical stories of healing and hope.
Kaigama remarked, “I am very happy to be with you today parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Martyrs, Sabon Lugbe. It is your turn during this special visit of your Archbishop to you to celebrate and promote our pastoral communion and spiritual solidarity in the Archdiocese of Abuja.” He continued to praise the faithful for their dynamic faith despite economic hardships and expressed admiration for their ability to maintain hope and trust in God’s providence.
The Archbishop also discussed the concept of martyrdom, both “red” and “white,” as he reflected on the sacrifices of those who have suffered or been killed for their faith. He reminded the congregation that even if they are not called to extreme forms of martyrdom, they are still called to live out their faith through love, prayer, and good works in the face of adversity.
He exhorted the faithful to not merely rely on prayer but also to engage actively in efforts to improve their communities, stating, “We must work as if everything depends on us, but we must pray as if everything depends on God.”
Kaigama also highlighted the importance of solidarity and compassion, urging both leaders and individuals to support those in need and work towards justice and peace. He emphasized that genuine Christian faith involves both spiritual devotion and tangible action to alleviate suffering and uphold human dignity.