Archbishop Martins Urges Action Against Nigeria's Insecurity

During a thanksgiving mass held in Lagos to celebrate Cardinal Okogie's 90th birthday, Archbishop Adebayo Martins called for intensified efforts to tackle insecurity across Nigeria. He expressed that insecurity is a heartbreaking issue affecting every Nigerian state.

Archbishop Martins disclosed that members of the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) have repeatedly raised concerns regarding insecurity during engagements with the government. Despite reports of progress by the Nigerian government in combating crime, communities continue to experience attacks, kidnappings, and displacement.

He urged the government to further equip and support security agencies, particularly the police and military, to effectively confront the threats facing the nation. Archbishop Martins emphasized the power of prayer in overcoming national challenges.

The thanksgiving celebration also included goodwill messages from prominent figures, including Pope Leo XIV, whose message was delivered by Apostolic Nuncio to Nigeria, Michael Francis Crotti, and dignitaries such as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other bishops.