By Monday Osayande, Asaba
A Delta State-based cleric, Samuel Akpan-Isong, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent and decisive measures to address Nigeria’s deteriorating economic conditions, warning that the hardship faced by citizens continues to intensify.
Akpan-Isong, Founder and General Overseer of Champions for Christ Chapel, made the appeal during a humanitarian outreach in Asaba, where he distributed food items, including rice, garri, bread, and noodle,as well as cash support to hundreds of vulnerable individuals.
The beneficiaries comprised widows, single mothers, elderly persons, and unemployed youths, many of whom, according to the cleric, are increasingly struggling to cope with the rising cost of living.
He criticised the current administration, alleging that its response to key national challenges, particularly insecurity, food inflation, and economic instability, has been inadequate and largely rhetorical.
“Many Nigerians are experiencing severe hardship. Behind outward appearances, countless citizens are battling hunger, inability to meet basic needs, and mounting financial pressure,” he said, noting that even the middle class is being eroded by persistent inflation.
Describing prevailing economic policies as burdensome to ordinary citizens, Akpan-Isong stressed that the soaring cost of goods and services has significantly weakened livelihoods across the country. He urged the President to prioritise practical interventions that would ease living conditions and rebuild public trust.
The cleric also emphasised the need for inclusive governance, cautioning against policies or attitudes that alienate vulnerable populations.
He further advocated for the appointment of competent and credible individuals into strategic positions, noting that effective leadership remains critical to national recovery.
“It is important for the government to confront current realities with sincerity and take bold steps toward reversing the situation,” he stated.
In addition, Akpan-Isong expressed concern over Nigeria’s declining global image, suggesting that the country’s standing in the international community is being undermined by its internal challenges.
While directing strong criticism at political leadership, he also urged religious institutions to play a more active role in promoting national development.
He encouraged churches to sustain prayers for leaders while also advocating accountability, ethical governance, and social responsibility.
According to him, the emergence of capable and principled leadership is essential to restoring stability and setting the nation on a path of sustainable growth.
