Wife of the Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, Dr. Mrs. Lydia Olukemi Odedeji has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria to make agriculture a priority following the high cost of food items in the country
She made the call in her welcome address at this year’s Women Conference of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West.
The event held at the Caroline Adefiola Women Centre in Ipaja, Lagos State to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the Diocesan Women’s Organisation.
Dr. Mrs. Odedeji noted that it had become imperative for government to do something as quickly as possible to help stem the tide of hunger in the land.
According to her, the way to go is for the federal government to declare a state of emergency in the agricultural sector and begin awareness campaign that will make people go back to the farm
She said, “The alarming rate at which costs of food items are daily sky- rocketing calls for urgent intervention by the Federal Government;
“We, for this reason, lend our voice to the voices of many people and organizations that have called on the Federal Government to declare a State of Emergency in the Agricultural sector of the Nigerian economy, notwithstanding the recent directives and deadline issued by the President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the State Governors on food security.
“We believe that a people-centered short-term solution that will mitigate the widespread hunger in the land is highly essential and should be accorded a premium priority” Dr. Mrs. Odedeji
While appreciating what she called ‘the small wins of the government’s policies and efforts at stemming the worrisome inflationary trend’ she urged those who bear responsibilities for our Nation’s financial and monetary policies and regulations not to rest on their oars
She further appealed to political office holders to be focused and create more time for the business of governance and attend to the myriad of the challenges facing the country.
On the theme of the three-day conference, “Godliness with Contentment is a Great Gain”, Dr. Mrs. Odedeji said godliness with Contentment is a manifestation of spiritual maturity.
She said the ability to grow spiritually and mature in faith depends greatly on one’s relationship with God through His word.
Bishop Odedeji
The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos West, The Rt. Revd. Dr. James Olusola Odedeji who was also at the event rejoiced with the Women on their Silver jubilee celebration. He admonished them to be more devoted and committed to the teachings of the word of God.
The event featured a wide range of activities including Bible study.sessions, health talk, variety night of testimonies and presentation of trophies and prizes to winners of the women’s Bible quiz.
