By Adeze Ojukwu
Nigeria Christian Graduate Fellowship (NCGF), a faith-based organization, has called on the Federal Government to enact policies that will improve the socio-economic and political development of the country.
The group, which made the call to mark Nigeria’s 63rd Independence, reaffirmed “its unwavering faith in the boundless potentials, the resilience of our great nation and great hope for a brighter future.”
NCGF is an interdenominational community of Christian graduates, committed to sponsoring free programs to foster education, health, nutrition, economic prosperity in various vulnerable communities in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
The evangelical-cum-missionary fellowship, frowned at the recent political developments in the country, saying they “have raised valid concerns” underscoring the necessity to “address the challenges with wisdom and unity, because they have the potential to disrupt our democratic ideals, peace, and national unity, if not properly managed.”
The group stated this in a press release, issued on Sunday, which was signed by its National President, Prof Ashong Ashong and General Secretary, Mr. Peter Adebayo.
The statement reads: “Nigeria’s history, like that of any other nation, has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. Democracy stands as the bedrock of sustainable development and economic prosperity for our beloved nation and its citizens. Therefore, any form of interference with the autonomy of government institutions, including the National Assembly and the Judiciary, is a matter of grave concern. We call upon all stakeholders to collaborate in efforts to strengthen the independence of these vital institutions, including INEC, the Police, EFCC, and ICPC, as they play pivotal roles in nurturing our democratic culture. We also appeal to our politicians and political parties to save our democracy by strengthening the mechanism of internal democracy and upholding the rule of law.
“The issue of corruption remains a worrisome obstacle in the corridors of power. The NCGF earnestly urges the legislature to enact more stringent and punitive laws to drastically reduce, if not eradicate, the vice which not only hampers our nation’s progress, but also tarnishes its reputation globally.
“Furthermore, the brain-drain phenomenon, particularly among professionals, such as medical doctors, nurses, paramedics, teachers, engineers, and IT specialists, demands immediate attention. Factors such as inadequate wages, deficiencies in infrastructure, unemployment, and other disincentives are driving our workforce, especially our young adults, to seek greener pastures abroad. We implore the authorities to comprehensively address these challenges in order to retain our best talents and expertise.
“The economic downturn has plunged a significant number of Nigerians into multi-dimensional poverty. Sadly, current economic policies have exacerbated this situation, leading to an increase in poverty, unemployment, crime, food scarcity, hunger, destitution, insecurity, and elevated morbidity and mortality rates across the country. It is of utmost importance that the government takes immediate and decisive action to reverse this trend and prevent further catastrophic consequences.
“In the light of the prevailing economic challenges, the NCGF calls on government at all levels to adopt prudent fiscal measures. This includes reducing the cost of governance by cutting down on the number of appointees and aides attached to our political actors, curbing unnecessary expenditure, and discouraging extravagant foreign trips. The huge size of the Federal cabinet runs contrary to the harsh economic conditions in the country. We strongly advocate for prioritizing investments in agriculture, manufacturing, education, research, and employment to uplift our nation from its current economic hardship.
“Nigeria Christian Graduate Fellowship reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the unity and progress of Nigeria. We firmly believe that, through unity, responsible governance, and collective efforts, we can harness the vast potential of our nation and overcome the challenges that lie ahead of us. Together, we can build a brighter future for all Nigerians.”
*Ojukwu is a public affairs analyst
