Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Monday urged religious leaders to intercede fervently for the country in bringing about greater economic prosperity, just as he tasked political leaders to prioritize the welfare of the masses.
Governor Ambode, who spoke while declaring open the 33rd Synod of the Lagos Diocese of Anglican Communion, held at the Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, said the country was in dire need of God’s blessings and prosperity at this critical point in time and the church has a great role to play.
The Governor expressed delight at the theme of the Synod which was to discuss the Ecclesiastical business vis-a-vis the role of the church in the country, saying the topic was apt and timely, especially at this trying period for the economy of the country.
“At the critical time in the history of Nigeria, there is no better time for us to talk about what the position of the church should be in this trying time. There is nothing else that can be that significant for us to actually gather and talk about the business of the church and also about how it affects the country itself,” the Governor said.
While alluding to the fact that the church has a major role to play in the economy, Governor Ambode said those saddled with responsibility of administering the country must put the interest of the people first.
According to the Governor, “Nigeria is in dire need of God’s greater prosperity and blessings at this time and there are no other people that can actually do that for us except we take it up by spiritual blessings that come out from the church.
“So, one can imagine that there is a correlation between the economy and the church and if the economy prospers, it is very clear that the welfare of the people in the church will also improve. So, it is in the best interest of those of us who are in government to ensure that the economy prospers or else people will not come into the church,” he said.
The Governor, however, expressed hope that deliberations at the Synod would be of greater benefit to humanity.
He assured the Anglican Communion that his administration would continue to sustain the symbiotic relationship that has always existed between the Government and the Lagos Diocese over the years.
Also speaking at the Synod, retired Justice of the Supreme Court, George Oguntade commended Governor Ambode for his remarkable footprints in the state in the last 11 months, saying that the good works of the Governor can indeed be felt everywhere.
Oguntade, however, expressed optimism that the Governor has succeeded in laying a strong foundation for a successful tenure in office which will be of immense benefit to the people.
On his part, Bishop of Lagos Diocese, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Ephraim Ademowo, also commended Governor Ambode for his giant strides so far, saying the State is surely in good hands.
“As the morning shows the day, Governor Ambode has always shown that he is a serious minded person. I have personally known him for 45 years to be intellectual propitious, brilliant, well focused, hardworking, disciplined, firm and gorgeous,” Ademowo said.
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