The Bishop of Lagos, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Ifedola Gabriel Okupevi, has highlighted the growing disparity between the rich and the poor, describing it as both a societal and moral failure.
Speaking at the pre-synod summit titled “Nehemiah Summit,” with the theme: “Tackling Poverty, Inequality and Unemployment: The Role of the Church,” Bishop Okupevi emphasized the need for faith-based institutions to become proactive agents of socio-economic transformation.
“It is crucial that we recognize the indelible role of the church in fostering change and impacting our communities for the better. This economic deprivation is intertwined with inequality, where wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, while the vast majority grapple with scarcity and lack,” Okupevi stated.
He urged parishes across the Diocese to view these challenges not merely as economic statistics but as real-life struggles affecting their congregants.
He stressed the importance of training, microfinance, and mentorship as tools for change, noting that the Church is uniquely positioned to be a beacon of hope and succor in times of need.
Bishop Okupevi outlined five key strategies for the Church to address these issues: spiritual mobilization and advocacy, community development initiatives, employment opportunities, care and support systems, and advocacy for policy change.
In his closing remarks, he reaffirmed the Diocese’s commitment to long-term investment in human capital and moral leadership.
“As we stand as agents of change, let us heed the example of Nehemiah, who did not merely lament the state of Jerusalem, but took action. It is time for the church to embrace its role as a catalyst for social transformation,” Okupevi concluded.
