THE Dean Emeritus of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev Adebola Ademowo, has stressed the need for the Federal Government to harness resources other than oil in the country.
Ademowo gave this advice at the closing ceremony of the second session of the 33rd synod, entitled, “Serving” at Our Saviours Church Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS) Onikan, on Thursday in Lagos.
He urged the Federal Government to raise a team of experts that would come up with vibrant economic policies for the country in order to achieve economic recovery.
“The nation’s continued over reliance on oil, which accounts for 90 per cent of the country’s foreign earnings, has exposed the economy to a major setback in foreign earnings and depletion of foreign reserve.
“The nation economy plunged into recession as a result of the fall in the global price of oil, and the resumption of militancy activities in Niger Delta, which has affected production,’’ he said.
The cleric advised economic policy formulators to ensure that the government improves the ease of doing business in Nigeria to attract foreign investors, boost the economy and generate employment.
Ademowo also lauded the efforts of the Federal Government in curbing the menace of insurgency in the country.
He urged the government at all levels to address the immediate causes of insecurity in the country, saying if left unchecked, would pose as a threat to the unity of the country.
“The success recorded at taking over the terrorist enclave in Sambisa forest by the Nigerian armed forces is laudable.
“The efforts to achieve economic development and security of lives and property may continue to suffer setbacks in the face of unbridled terrorist activities .
“The effects of terrorist activities such as suicide bombings, kidnapping, destruction of lives and public infrastructure, if unchecked, could create an atmosphere of fear, panic and confusion.
“It can also endanger the efforts to achieve industrial development in the country and to face this challenge headlong, a change of approach is inevitable,’’ he added.
Ademowo said that some Christians had deviated from their purpose of existence and needed to be constantly reminded that their main purpose was service to God and humanity.
Ademowo said that it was only through selfless service to God and humanity that life could be made more comfortable for the masses.
According to him, the theme of the synod is to propagate the message on the importance of selfless service to humanity.
and then