The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Akanji, has defended the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the administration inherited a badly managed economy.
Akanji made the remarks during a press conference in Abuja ahead of the 113th Nigerian Baptist Convention.
He acknowledged that recent reforms have brought hardship and financial pressure on many Nigerians, but said the measures were introduced to rebuild the economy and create long term benefits for citizens.
According to him, the government must continue efforts to reduce the impact of the reforms while ensuring that policies are properly implemented at all levels.
He called for strict monitoring of the three tiers of government to make sure economic programmes deliver results to the people.
The cleric urged the President to intensify policies that can quickly repair the country’s economic challenges, while noting that global conflicts have also affected economies around the world.
Akanji also advised politicians currently in office to focus more on governance than early campaign politics ahead of the 2027 elections.
He said leaders who perform well and improve the lives of citizens would have nothing to fear when elections arrive.
The Baptist leader further appealed to political actors to avoid violence, malpractice, and actions that could threaten peace during the next election cycle.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain neutral and committed to conducting free, fair, and credible elections.
Speaking on the upcoming 113th annual convention, Akanji said thousands of delegates from across Nigeria would gather in Abuja for worship, prayer, planning, and spiritual renewal.
He also called on the executive, legislative, and judicial arms of government to continue promoting religious freedom and respect for human dignity across the country.
According to him, Nigeria’s diversity makes peaceful dialogue and protection of religious rights essential for national stability.
