STRENGTHEN YOUR LIFE WITH THE PRESENT DAY ECONOMIC MISFORTUNE, SAYS CLERIC. (PHOTO).

 Strengthen Your Life With The Present Day Economic Misfortune, Says Cleric

By David Okpala/Stella Okpala

Vicar, St Paul's Catholic Church Akpo, Rev Fr George Arugbue has called on Nigerians to make present day economic woes stepping stone, to better life.

Fr Arugbue stated this while admonishing congregation shortly after Mass at the Church, in Aguata LGA, on June 9.

The cleric noted that the globe has been witnessing economic downturn and Nigeria has had large share of it before now.

He appreciated God who preserved the lives of His children during the Nigeria Civil War where disease claimed many lives, yet there were survivals. "The story of Austerity Measure, Structure Adjustment Programme(SAP) are not far history.

"Some of us living today witnessed this economic woes, yet we are living to tell stories about it today. God who did it to us then is still our God, promising to do more. Let us acknowledge the reality of Nigeria economy today, adjust to fit into it," he maintained.

He pointed out that transport fares have surged by approximately 500 percent. Instead of grumbling about it, he suggested that people could opt for walking shorter distances, which would not only be cost-effective but also serve as a form of exercise. 

Fr Arugbue also observed that food prices have skyrocketed, making it difficult for ordinary people to afford basic necessities. He advocated for peasant farming as a solution, emphasizing the importance of self-sufficiency and growing one's own food. He suggested that individuals should strive to produce enough food for their families and have surplus to sell, citing examples like okra, vegetables, cocoyam, and palm nuts.

He emphasized the need for love and unity in these challenging times, referencing Romans 8:28. He encouraged sharing resources, like land and seeds, to help each other and warned against taking advantage of others' kindness. 

He noted the government's support with high-yield seeds and emphasized collective victory over victimhood.

*David and Stella are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State *