The Rt. Revd. Dr. James Olusola Odedeji, the Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, has called on the Federal Government to focus more on the nation’s escalating poverty “even as it celebrates individuals offering exceptional service to the nation, such as sports athletes.”
The Bishop’s remarks were made during the opening ceremony of the 23rd annual holiday camp for the Diocese’s Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades.
While acknowledging the importance of celebrating national heroes, Bishop Odedeji cautioned against gestures that are out of touch with Nigeria’s current economic realities.
He urged the government to prioritize economic reforms that can directly address the heightened level of poverty in the country.
“In the face of the alarming poverty rate in our nation, the amount involved can be diverted to initiatives that uplift the lives of the people,” he stated.
He advocated for a more modest approach to recognizing national contributors, one that is aligned with the economic hardships facing millions of Nigerians.
“We must appreciate our heroes, but such gestures should be modest and in line with the current economic realities.”
The annual holiday camp, held at the Caroline Adefiola Adebiyi Women Development Centre in Ipaja, Lagos, brought together over 1,000 young people from various parishes. The camp, themed “Be a Beacon of Light,” is designed to instill Christian values, discipline, and leadership skills.
Activities include Bible study, spiritual expositions, physical drills, and a digital Bible quiz developed by tech-savvy youths within the Diocese.
The Chaplain of the Brigades, the Revd Canon Bode Daramola, described the camp as a crucial investment in the next generation of leaders. “Our core mandate as Brigades is to advance the kingdom of Christ, not only through preaching but by being examples in our communities,” he said.
He encouraged the young participants to live a life of service and humility, emphasizing that a Christ-like lifestyle is a powerful testimony.
Bishop Odedeji praised the organizers, volunteers, and parents for their commitment to the moral and spiritual development of the youth.
He charged the campers to apply the lessons learned, stating, “When you engage in a fruit-bearing lifestyle, people are bound to respect your God and honor your God. Everything is not about the pulpit; it’s about how you interact with the community.”
The official opening ceremony was attended by several notable guests, including the Special Guest of Honour, Barr. (Mrs) Omotola Rotimi, former director of the Lagos State Office of Public Defender.
Also in attendance were the Diocesan Brigade Chaplain, The Revd Canon Bode Daramola and his wife, as well as zonal chaplains and other officials from the Diocese.
The event highlighted the community’s collective effort to nurture young people into responsible and impactful citizens.
