Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, has urged the Nigerian Christian faith to expand its role in providing social services as the August 1 protest date approaches.
This, she believes, could help reduce frustration and unrest in the country.
Speaking at the annual Apostles of Peace International Awards at Archbishop Vinning Memorial Church Cathedral in Ikeja, Lagos, Ogunsola emphasized the need for the Church to focus on education, healthcare, vocational training, poverty alleviation, and economic empowerment.
She said, “The Church must be more youth-centered, seek to understand them so we can engage them in positive activities such as sports, arts, and community service, to reduce the likelihood of them being drawn into violent activities.”
Ogunsola also urged the Church to advocate for justice and fairness by “speaking out against corruption, inequality, and human rights abuses,” and to support policies that promote justice. “Engage in economic empowerment initiatives: Supporting entrepreneurship and providing micro-loans or business training, set up vocational centers or partner with established ones, help individuals start small businesses, creating jobs – reduce economic frustrations that can lead to unrest,” she added.
She also highlighted the importance of campaigns to raise awareness about peace, tolerance, and coexistence. “Churches can run campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of peace, tolerance, and coexistence, helping to shift public attitudes and reduce prejudice,” Ogunsola said. She encouraged promoting interfaith dialogue to reduce religious tensions and foster mutual respect.
The National President of Apostles of Peace International, shared the organization’s mission, Engr. Paul Duro Ajisafe, “Our objectives are clear: to foster dialogue, encourage understanding, and build bridges where there are walls.”
He added, “The Apostles of Peace International is a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, service, and unwavering faith. We have built and provided community water sources and supplies as social amenities to elevate the hygiene status in educational institutions, seminaries, correctional homes, and communities that are cut off from such essential supplies.”
