Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, the Primate of the Anglican Church of Nigeria, has raised alarm over Nigeria’s trajectory, warning that the nation is at risk of becoming a failed state akin to Somalia and South Sudan.
Archbishop Ndukuba’s remarks came amidst growing concerns over Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, economic challenges, and governance issues.
Expressing deep concern over the worsening economic conditions, Archbishop Ndukuba lamented over high debt levels, reckless borrowing, and inflationary pressures as significant contributors.
He called for concrete measures to address these challenges, including the establishment of a state or regional police force to combat insecurity effectively.
He urged the government to intervene promptly to alleviate citizens’ suffering, particularly in addressing fuel scarcity, increasing electricity tariffs, and reviewing workers’ wages.
Archbishop Ndukuba said: “The insecurity of lives and property in Nigeria has become a cancer that is eating deep into the fabric of our national life. Nigeria is becoming a failed State in the league of Somalia and South Sudan which are riddled with internal conflicts among the constituent tribes and political leaders.
“The establishment of a state or regional police force will help each geo-political zone respond to the challenge of insecurity in their region and bring stability, security and economic growth.
“Nobody can passionately defend and protect a territory better than those who have stakes in such a place. The advantages in having the state police outweigh the disadvantages. The existence of State Police does not rule out the presence of a federal police force.”
On the economy, Ndukuba said: “The economy of Nigeria is in a bad shape, and citizens feel the pain daily. The efforts of economic policy planners, the new Central Bank governor, and his team to stabilize the exchange rate are commendable.
“High debt levels, reckless borrowing, and corruption are contributing to adverse economic conditions. The crippling debt burden erodes investor confidence, leading to capital flight and negatively impacting the Nigerian stock market and overall economic stability. Continuous borrowing contributes to inflationary pressures, driving up prices and affecting the cost of living.
“The 2024 budget and Nigeria’s debt profile are intertwined, requiring prudent management to ensure debt sustainability and long-term economic health.
“The recent fuel scarcity and increase in electricity tariff are making life difficult for citizens, and the government should intervene to alleviate suffering. A review of the wages of Nigerian workers is necessary due to hyperinflation and the harsh economic environment.”
