The Vanguard Newspaper has reported that economic hardship is severely impacting church attendance and offerings across Nigeria. The Archbishop of Ibadan Province, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Dr. Williams Aladekugbe, expressed deep concern over the growing financial strain on Christians, which has prevented many from attending services and contributing to church offerings.
Speaking over the weekend at the 1st Distinguished Alumni Lecture of the Department of Religious Studies, Faculty of Arts, University of Ibadan, Aladekugbe highlighted how the nation’s worsening economic conditions have even compelled a cleric to make a passionate plea to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to save Nigerians from the biting crisis.
Delivering a lecture titled “The Faith Once Delivered to the Saints in the Context of Contemporary Socio-Economic Challenges” at the Otunba Subomi Balogun Conference Centre, the Archbishop lamented that many Christian families could no longer afford to attend church services due to the high cost of living. Those who still manage to attend, he noted, often struggle to give offerings or participate in other financial contributions.
> “The removal of fuel subsidies and subsequent economic downturn have taken a serious toll on Christians in Nigeria. Many who once attended church services regularly now struggle to afford transport fares, while those who do attend find it difficult to contribute financially to the church,” Aladekugbe stated.
He recalled how a cleric, during the funeral of the late Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, publicly called on President Tinubu, saying:
> “You said it’s your turn. Now, save Nigerians from hunger.”
The Archbishop noted that, historically, Nigerians have always protested against policies that negatively impact the economy, and today is no different. However, despite multiple demonstrations against the high cost of living, the government’s economic policies remain unchanged, and prices of essential commodities continue to soar.
> “Groups, associations, clubs, traditional rulers, clerics, and the general populace have been groaning under the economic policies of the present regime. Nigerians are frustrated, hungry, and angry,” he said.
Aladekugbe further warned that the prevailing hardship, coupled with rising insecurity, poverty, and unemployment, has left Nigerians in a state of desperation. He pointed out that crime rates have spiked as people struggle to survive, while discussions about Nigeria’s uncertain future dominate social media, street conversations, and gatherings in clubhouses.
> “People are now asking, ‘God, where are You?’ because their faith is being shaken by the economic realities they face daily,” he added.
The Archbishop emphasized that the clergy and religious leaders must take on a greater role in providing hope, counseling, and faith-based teachings to prevent depression, loss of hope, and even suicide among Nigerians. He urged ministers to intensify lectures, sermons, and teachings that reinforce faith and resilience, assuring believers that this period of hardship will not last forever.
> “Faith should be cultivated as a step toward attracting God’s divine intervention,” Aladekugbe advised.
He warned that fear has taken root in the hearts of many Nigerians—fear of enemies, fear of tomorrow, fear of poverty, and fear of the unknown. This, he said, stems from a crisis of faith, which must be addressed urgently to restore hope among the people.
As Nigeria continues to battle economic difficulties, Aladekugbe’s message underscores the intersection of faith and survival, highlighting the need for both spiritual and governmental intervention to alleviate the suffering of millions.
PIONEER NEWS 