The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Most Rev. Ignatius Ayau Kaigama, has raised a clarion call against the myriad forces of evil bedeviling Nigeria, pointing to corruption, insecurity, economic hardship, and deepening social divisions as the nation’s most pressing afflictions. Speaking during the opening Mass of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria’s first plenary assembly for 2025, Archbishop Kaigama did not mince words about the gravity of Nigeria’s predicament, but insisted that hope is not lost if Nigerians recommit themselves to fervent prayer, upright living, and collective action to dispel darkness from the land.
Archbishop Kaigama described the current situation as a “wilderness” period for the country, marked by widespread oppression and a decline in moral values. He challenged Christians to use the Lenten season as a time for deep reflection, urging them to fast from corruption and hatred, pray for national renewal, and give generously to the needy. According to him, the Church must lead by example—championing honesty, service, and love—while boldly calling for justice and standing up for the poor and oppressed.
The Archbishop further condemned the culture of blaming God for the consequences of human negligence and corruption. He cited instances where lives are lost due to government inaction—such as strikes by health workers or poorly constructed roads—emphasizing that these tragedies are not acts of God but the result of choices made by leaders and citizens alike. “God gave us the free will to choose good or evil, but we often choose evil, corruption, and injustice, then turn around to blame God,” he stressed.
Kaigama also warned that the persistent insensitivity to evil has normalized corruption in Nigeria, making it a near-cultural phenomenon that permeates politics and everyday life. He lamented that young people are learning corrupt practices from their elders, perpetuating a vicious cycle that undermines the nation’s future. The Archbishop called for a radical change in attitude across all strata of society, from leaders and professionals to the youth and children, urging a return to a strong sense of sin, guilt, and personal responsibility.
While acknowledging the suffering and persecution many Nigerians endure—especially Christians who face discrimination and violence—Archbishop Kaigama encouraged believers to embrace both “red martyrdom” (suffering unto death) and “white martyrdom” (persecution and denial of rights) with courage, love, and unwavering faith. He urged all Nigerians not to rely solely on government but to engage in meaningful work, help the needy, and use their God-given talents for the betterment of society.
In his message, Archbishop Kaigama reaffirmed his belief in the possibility of a new Nigeria, one liberated from the grip of evil and oppression, if only her people would unite in prayer, moral renewal, and selfless service to one another.
