Bishop Godfrey Onah of the Diocese of Nsukka in Enugu State has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and actively contribute to improving the nation. He made this appeal during a thanksgiving service in Abuja, marking the end of Rev. Fr. Uchechukwu Obodoechina’s tenure as Executive Secretary of Caritas-Nigeria, an agency dedicated to promoting the welfare of the poor under the Catholic Church.
Despite the challenging circumstances in the country, Bishop Onah emphasized that it is the duty of citizens to take charge and address Nigeria’s issues. He stated, “Nigerians should understand that the solution to Nigeria lies in their hands. The worst thing we can do is lose hope.”
He encouraged unity among citizens, stressing that everyone has a role to play in the nation’s progress. “We must not allow anyone to intimidate us into submission. Together, we can salvage our country if each of us takes our responsibilities seriously,” he urged.
Onah also called on the government to fulfill its responsibilities in enhancing the lives of citizens. He acknowledged that while the government plays a crucial role, it cannot solve all problems independently, highlighting the importance of interventions from organizations like Caritas-Nigeria.
He noted that the reliance on such agencies to address significant issues reflects poorly on the government.
Rev. Fr. Uchechukwu Obodoechina expressed gratitude for the support he received during his eight years in office. He urged governments at all levels to ensure that all Nigerians enjoy a dignified life comparable to that in other countries. He pointed out that international partners from nations such as Germany, the United States, and the UK have been assisting in efforts to enhance dignity for Nigerians.
“It is essential for the government to fulfill its duties in safeguarding the lives and property of its citizens. If they fall short, the church and civil society will continue to do their part to positively impact the lives of those in Nigeria,” he concluded.
(NAN)
