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By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
The Diocesan Bishop of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rev. Ifedola Okupevi, has called on Nigerians and the nation’s leaders to work collectively towards redeeming the image of the country by upholding truth, integrity, and righteous conduct at all times.
Rev. Okupevi made the call during the Christmas Service held at Marina, Lagos, on Christmas Day. He emphasised that national renewal begins with personal and collective commitment to truth, stressing that meaningful progress cannot be achieved in an atmosphere of dishonesty.
Addressing political leaders, Rev. Okupevi urged them to abandon falsehood and embrace integrity in governance.
The bishop also spoke strongly against the rising insecurity across the country, including insurgency, kidnapping, armed robbery, and other social vices. He called on Nigerians to unite against these threats, adding that faith in God remains a vital weapon in confronting evil.
Rev. Okupevi further encouraged Nigerians to show compassion and responsibility towards one another by giving to individuals in need. He highlighted hunger and poverty as major challenges that require collective action, urging citizens to support and uplift others within their communities.
Reflecting on the moral and economic challenges facing the nation, the cleric attributed many of Nigeria’s problems to disobedience and moral decay. He lamented practices such as corruption, violence, and drug abuse, describing them as consequences of straying from righteous living.
Rev. Okupevi offered prayers for divine intervention, asking God to bring salvation to those involved in the production and consumption of illicit drugs. He also reminded Christians of their responsibility to lead by example, describing believers as the light of the world who must reflect godly values in society.
