The Anglican Bishop of Lagos West Diocese, The Rt. Revd. Dr. James Olusola Odedeji, has urged the Federal Government to focus more on economic reforms that directly tackle the rising poverty rate in Nigeria, rather than lavish spending on symbolic gestures.
Speaking at the opening of the 23rd Annual Holiday Camp of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades of the Diocese, held at the Caroline Adefiola Adebiyi Women Development Centre in Ipaja, Lagos, Bishop Odedeji stressed the need for national spending to reflect the harsh economic realities faced by many Nigerians.
While commending athletes and public figures who bring honour to the country, he cautioned against excessive rewards that may appear disconnected from the suffering of the masses.
“We must appreciate our heroes, but such gestures should be modest and in line with the current economic realities,” he said.
“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.”
His comments come amid increasing public scrutiny of the government’s spending priorities, particularly after recent reports of monetary gifts to athletes and celebrities.
The three-day holiday camp, running from August 5–7, has gathered over 1,000 youths from various parishes across the Diocese under the theme: “Be a Beacon of Light.”
The programme is designed to instill Christian values, discipline, and leadership qualities in young participants.
The camp features a diverse lineup of activities, including Bible study, spiritual expositions, physical drills, campfire sessions, and a digital Bible quiz organized by the Diocese’s tech-savvy youth.
Speaking at the event, Brigade Chaplain Revd. Canon Bode Daramola described the camp as a strategic investment in raising future leaders and Christian ambassadors.
“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.
“When your lifestyle reflects Christ, people are moved to honour your God.”
He encouraged the youths to go beyond religious observance and live lives marked by humility, service, and positive impact.
The camp also includes mentorship sessions, vocational skills training, and team-building exercises aimed at promoting unity and a sense of purpose among participants.
Bishop Odedeji, while appreciating the organisers, volunteers, and parents for their dedication to the moral and spiritual development of the youths, urged the participants to apply the lessons learned during the camp in their daily lives.
“Everything is not about the pulpit. It’s about how you interact with your community.
“When you live a fruit-bearing life, people will be compelled to respect and honour your God,” he said.
The Bishop was joined at the official opening ceremony by the Diocesan brigade chaplain, his wife, Iyabo, other zonal chaplains across the Diocese, diocesan head of media, Mr Tunji Oguntuase and other special guests, including a former director of the Lagos state Office of Public Defender, Barr. (Mrs) Omotola Rotimi.
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