By Abel Leonard, Lafia
The President of the Evangelical Reformed Church of Christ (ERCC), Worldwide, Rev. Dave Denji, has called on the Nigerian government to review its economic policies, particularly regarding electricity tariffs and fuel subsidy removal, to ease the hardship faced by citizens.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with thesun.ng, Rev. Denji emphasised that while faith-based organisations believe in divine intervention, the government must take practical steps to improve the economy.
- “We have faith that God can use leaders to bring positive change, but the reality is that many Nigerians are suffering due to the rising cost of living. Electricity tariffs are too high, and basic survival has become difficult for the average citizen,” he said.
He lamented the high cost of powering small generators, citing his personal experience.
- “I spend nothing less than ₦20,000 to ₦30,000 per week just to fuel a small generator. If this continues, it will cripple businesses and worsen poverty,” he added.
On the removal of fuel subsidies, the ERCC leader stressed the need for strategic government intervention, arguing that even developed nations implement subsidy systems.
- “While it is not possible to subsidise everything, critical sectors such as electricity and telecommunications should be supported to prevent a total economic breakdown,” he said.
He also cautioned against the proposed increase in telecom tariffs, stating that further price hikes would only add to the financial burden on Nigerians.
Rev. Denji dismissed government palliatives as unsustainable, insisting that systemic reforms would better serve Nigerians in the long run.
- “We have seen pictures of palliatives being shared, but I have never received any as a church leader, and most of my members haven’t either,” he stated.
According to him, real economic relief should come through structural policies that empower people, rather than through temporary handouts.
- “Palliatives are short-term solutions. What Nigerians need is a system that enables them to sustain themselves, not occasional food packages,” he emphasised.
Church’s role in governance and economic development
Commenting on the role of religious leaders in governance, he acknowledged that while some church leaders engage with politicians mainly during elections, faith-based institutions must play a more active role in advocating for the people.
- “Our responsibility is to speak for the voiceless. Church leaders should consistently engage with the government, not just during election periods, to push for policies that uplift the people,” he said.
Reflecting on his tenure as ERCC President, Rev. Denji highlighted key initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic sustainability.
- “When I assumed office in 2019, one of my first tasks was to revamp Mada Hills Secondary School, which was in poor condition. We declared a state of emergency and injected ₦15 million to renovate the school and improve learning conditions,” he revealed.
He also noted efforts to improve church-run healthcare facilities, including a ₦15 million intervention to stabilise the ERCC hospital in Alushi.
Additionally, the ERCC has expanded its network of secondary schools, now managing over 62 institutions across Kaduna and Nasarawa States.
To ensure financial stability, the church has embarked on commercial projects, including the construction of shopping malls in Akwanga, Keffi, and Guantu.
- “We are moving towards economic self-reliance. We cannot depend solely on offerings, which is why we are investing in sustainable ventures,” he explained.
Rev. Denji also emphasised the church’s pension reform efforts, ensuring that retirees receive their benefits without delays.
- “Under my leadership, every retiree gets their gratuity on the day they retire, and pensions are paid promptly every 24th of the month. This is about leadership that prepares for both present and future needs,” he stated.
As part of its efforts to support members beyond spirituality, the ERCC has launched economic empowerment programmes, skill acquisition initiatives, and small business support schemes.
- “Evangelism today must go beyond preaching. We must also address the economic realities of our people by providing them with opportunities to become self-reliant,” he added.
Rev. Denji urged the government to prioritise economic policies that benefit the masses rather than a privileged few.
- “The government must act swiftly to address economic hardships. People are struggling, and it is time for real action, not just promises,” he said.
He reaffirmed the ERCC’s commitment to advocating for policies that enhance Nigerians’ welfare while continuing to provide education, healthcare, and economic empowerment programmes within the church.