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Nigeria@64: Tackle hunger, insecurity now, Ositelu urges FG
By Francesca Hangeior.
The Primate of the Church of the Lord Worldwide and President of the World Council of Churches from Africa, Rufus Ositelu, has called on the government to invest more in agriculture to arrest the widespread hunger in the country.
In a message to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration, Ositelu stated that as an integral part of society, the church had a duty to contribute to national development.
Speaking against the backdrop of the hunger protests that rocked the country recently, the popular cleric said, “The recent hunger protests that have gripped our nation is a sombre reminder of the deep economic challenges that many citizens are facing.
“These protests, while a cry for help, also represent a clarion call for urgent and comprehensive action. We must acknowledge that the root causes of these protests are intertwined with broader economic difficulties. I urge government at all levels to continually address the systemic issues that lead to poverty and hunger.
“It is imperative that we— government, citizens, private sector and civil society organisations— work together to create sustainable solutions that will ensure that no one goes to bed hungry. This means investing in agriculture and mineral resources, and creating an enabling environment for employment opportunities; as well as improving supply chains, and providing support for the most vulnerable in society.”
Ositelu also noted that the upward review of the minimum wage to N70,000 was a step in the right direction “Considering the current economic conditions, inflation and the rising cost of living.”
He emphasised that the new wage would uplift the citizenry and protect the dignity of labour while fostering economic growth and stability.
Ositelu, who has PhDs in Computer Science and Religion, also tasked the government with providing adequate security for the citizenry because “it is the bedrock upon which the nation’s future is built.”
He called on the Federal Government to review and strengthen its security apparatus, while also addressing the root causes of violence. He asserted that building trust between communities and law enforcement agents, promoting dialogue, and ensuring justice were key components of a comprehensive peace strategy.
The cleric also described corruption as a significant challenge that undermined the nation’s progress. He stated that it eroded public trust and diverted resources away from crucial development projects, adding that all Nigerians must continue to support anti-corruption initiatives and hold accountable those who engage in corrupt practices.
“A transparent and accountable government is essential for the effective functioning of our society. It is our collective responsibility to foster a culture of integrity and honesty at all levels,” he said.
Reiterating his stance on fiscal federalism, Ositelu stated that the principles of fiscal federalism and local government autonomy were vital for effective governance.
According to him, the former ensures the equitable distribution of resources, promotes regional development and empowers regional governments to address local needs effectively.
“The approval of local government autonomy by the current administration represents a positive step toward decentralising power and enhancing local governance. This autonomy empowers local authorities to address the specific needs of their communities more effectively. I hereby call on all local government chairmen to implement these reforms in a manner that promotes efficiency, accountability and development at the grassroots,” he added.
The computer scientist-turned-cleric also stated that restructuring, regional governments and constitutional review were pivotal for the future of the country.
Stressing the importance of prayers, Ositelu stated that it is a source of strength and guidance.
“It is through prayer that we seek divine wisdom, solace and direction. As we navigate these complex issues, l urge you to be hopeful and turn to God with a grateful heart for support and inspiration as there will eventually be light at the end of the tunnel,” he concluded.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Catholic faithful and in deed the whole world are still waiting for a new pope as plumes of black smoke emanated from the roof of the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican earlier today as the voting by the conclave of Cardinals to elect a successor to the late Pope Francis ended without electing a new pope.
A muted roar went up from the faithful gathered at Rome’s St. Peter’s Square as soon as the black plume of smoke went up, with many consequently streaming out of the place to wait for the next voting round about 5.30pm Nigeria time.
White smoke from the chimney signals a new Pope has been elected.
The last conclave, which elected Francis in 2013, lasted two days and involved five ballots.
In 2005, when Pope Benedict XVI was chosen by the assembled cardinals, the process also lasted two days and took four ballots in total, while the conclave to elect John Paul II in 1978 took three days and eight ballots.
Of the modern conclaves, 10 since the beginning of the 20th century, the average length of time was three days and seven ballots.
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, Easter Monday, aged 88.
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Members of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet have issued a warning to foreign visitors planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States: Do not overstay your visas.
While the U.S. government says it welcomes fans from around the world to experience the incredible venues and vibrant American culture, officials are making it clear that all visitors must leave the country once their authorized stay ends.
In a video posted on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that any visitors who overstay their visas will face action from the appropriate authorities.
“I know we will have visitors from close to 100 countries. We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the games. But when the time is up, they will have to go home — otherwise, they’ll have to talk to the Secretary,” the Vice President said.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation also emphasized the importance of respecting visa rules, while encouraging visitors to explore more of the country during their stay:
“We’re going to encourage everyone to go on a road trip to celebrate our great country. So if you’re coming to see some soccer, go on a road trip and see America. Don’t overstay your visa. Don’t stay too long. But when you come, actually see this great country that we’re going to celebrate over the course of the next year.”
This warning appears to be directed, in part, at some football fans in Ghana who have publicly expressed intentions not to return home after attending the tournament in the U.S.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the premier international men’s football (soccer) tournament, will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches held in 16 cities across the three countries. It marks the first time three nations have jointly hosted a World Cup, and only the second time multiple countries have done so — the first being Japan and South Korea in 2002.
The 2026 tournament will also feature a historic expansion to 48 teams, up from the previous 32, making it the largest World Cup in history.
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