President Tinubu
Nigerian Baptist Convention President Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms, Calls for Strict Monitoring of Govt Tiers
President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Akanji, has defended President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, stating that the president inherited a mismanaged economy.
Speaking at a press conference to herald the 113th Nigerian Baptist Convention in Abuja on Friday, Rev. Akanji acknowledged that the reforms have brought hardship and pain to the people. Nevertheless, he expressed appreciation for the president’s efforts to cushion the severity of the economic situation.
He maintained that the reforms are intended to revive the economy so that every citizen would benefit.
“However, we strongly suggest that the three tiers of government must be strictly monitored to ensure the adequate implementation of the policies.”
He urged the president to continue intensifying efforts to implement economic policies that will mend the country’s broken pieces as quickly as possible.
“We are making this request despite being mindful of the global wars which have continued to adversely affect every part of the world,” he said.
Rev. Akanji encouraged politicians, especially those currently in office, to work for the good of the masses who entrusted them with power.
“I don’t think we will be realistic to tell our current leaders to take their eyes off politics when 2027 is seriously knocking at our door. However, we need to tell them to continue focusing on governance and finding ways out of the current sensitive economic hardship and security challenges. Whoever does his work well now need not fear the coming 2027 elections because their work will speak for them.
“We are at the verge of the electioneering season; it is imperative to urge our politicians to play the game according to the rules – to shun all forms of violence and election malpractices. As one of our former leaders said, no political ambition is worth the blood of anyone. Hence, we also implore INEC to maintain neutrality and be determined to conduct free, fair, and credible polls.”
Regarding the 113th annual convention, Rev. Akanji said the event will begin on Saturday with the theme “Entering into Newness through the Fruit and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit.”
He confirmed that thousands of delegates from across the country would converge on Abuja to seek the Face of God in prayers, learning, and supplication.
“It is a time of revival, worship, and prayer for our country, presenting reports of our stewardship, doing appraisals, and planning for the coming years. Almighty God will accept our prayers under corporate anointing, grant us understanding of His word, and make our gathering a blessing to our entire nation and us.”
He implored the three arms of government to continue promoting and sustaining religious freedom in Nigeria.
“This has become a global appeal at apex world bodies, especially the United Nations. Nigeria, a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country, cannot dissociate its crises from the lack of dignity for humans and respect for religious freedom. Therefore, the president should ensure conscious and continuous dialogue to uphold the dignity of human life and religious freedom in the country.”
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