PFN Urges FG to Tackle Insecurity, Economic Hardship, Corruption at 66th Independence
As Nigeria marked its 66th independence anniversary on Thursday, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) appealed to the federal government to urgently confront insecurity, economic hardship and corruption, stating that the nation can no longer overlook the problems it faces.
In his Independence Day message, PFN National President Archbishop Francis Wale Oke urged both federal and state governments to step up efforts to enhance the welfare of Nigerians, drive industrialisation and foster an environment where businesses can flourish.
Oke said the occasion was a time for both celebration and sober reflection. He noted that over 66 years, the country has recorded significant progress that cannot be denied, but added that the challenges before the nation cannot be ignored.
He emphasised that peace and security are essential for any meaningful development, and called for a framework that protects every life across the country, whether in cities or villages, and in all regions.
Oke specifically demanded that bandits and terrorists be flushed out of the forests and that they, along with their financiers, be brought to justice. He insisted that the Federal Government must do more and act immediately, saying the blood of citizens cries out and cannot be met with silence.
Turning to the economy, Oke described the worsening situation as deeply worrisome and urged federal and state governments to take urgent steps to alleviate the hardship Nigerians are facing. He said the reality is evident without needing reports or indices, and stressed that Nigeria's human and natural resources should be used to improve the welfare of the general population, not just a few elites.
He called the economic burden on the people unacceptable and said it must be addressed urgently and with compassion. He also advocated for reviewing existing laws and crafting new ones to enable businesses to thrive and help the average Nigerian prosper. He added that industrialisation should be vigorously pursued to bring about massive economic, technological and social changes that would enhance productive capacity and raise the standard of living.
On corruption, Oke condemned it as an anathema to democracy, blaming it for undermining accountability, transparency and the rule of law. He described corruption as a hydra-headed monster that has torn the soul of the nation apart, stalled growth, drained public resources, deepened inequality, harmed public trust, limited the potential of young people and undermined justice.
He urged governments at all levels—national, state and local—to intensify the fight against corruption so that Nigerians can enjoy the benefits of democracy.
Oke also expressed concern about the production and transportation of illicit drugs through Nigeria, warning that this trend poses a serious threat to the younger generation. He said it is heartbreaking to see the rise of such drugs, and stressed that while much has been done, more effort is needed to eliminate this evil. He called for the protection of children, describing them as a gift from God and warning that their destruction is an affront to the future.
Appealing to Nigerians regardless of tribe, religion or social class, Oke urged unity and a collective effort to build a peaceful and just nation. He called on citizens to commit themselves to building a country where peace, oneness and love prevail, and where justice flows like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream. He also encouraged Nigerians to stand together with God as their foundation to create a Nigeria that will glorify God, fulfil the promise of its founding fathers and become a source of pride.
The PFN leader said Nigerians must take responsibility for the country's progress, expressing optimism that Nigeria can still achieve greatness. He assured that God is with the nation, but stressed that all Nigerians must rededicate themselves to God and to the ideals of the nation. He said Nigeria can be great again, but everyone must play their part, adding that the country belongs to all and its progress depends on all. He urged Nigerians to be determined to think, speak and do only what will move the nation forward and accelerate its progress.
Oke concluded by wishing Nigerians well and praying for the continued progress of the country.
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