The Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Lagos West, The Rt. Revd. James Olusola Odedeji, has called on the Federal Government to prioritise economic reforms that directly address the growing poverty levels , even as it celebrates individuals offering exceptional service to the nation, such as sports athletes.
Bishop Odedeji made the appeal while speaking at the opening ceremony of the 23rd annual holiday camp of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades of the Diocese, at the Caroline Adefiola Adebiyi Women Development Centre, Ipaja, Lagos.
Acknowledging the importance of recognising national contributors, including athletes who bring honour to the country, the Bishop cautioned against gestures that are disconnected from the economic hardship .
“We must appreciate our heroes, but such gestures should be modest and in line with the current economic realities.”
Bishop Odedeji’s remarks come amid growing public debates on national spending priorities, particularly following recent reports of monetary awards to athletes and public figures.
The Diocese’s annual holiday camp, which runs from 5 to 7 August, has over 1,000 young people from across parishes in the Diocese attending, under the theme; “Be a Beacon of Light”.
The camp, designed to instill Christian values, discipline, and leadership skills in young members of the Boys’ and Girls’ Brigades, will feature a mix of activities including Bible study, spiritual exposition, physical drills, campfire sessions, and a digital Bible quiz, powered by the tech-savvy youths within the Diocese.
Chaplain of the Brigades, the Revd Canon Bode Daramola, described the camp as a critical investment in the next generation of leaders and christian witnesses from the Diocese.
“Our core mandate as Brigades is to advance the kingdom of Christ, not only through preaching but by being examples in our communities,” he said.
“When your lifestyle reflects Christ, people are moved to honour your God.”
He encouraged young people to go beyond religious routines and embrace a life of service, humility, and impact.
The camp also includes mentorship sessions, vocational skills demonstrations, and team-building exercises aimed at fostering unity and purpose amongst young people.
Bishop Odedeji, hailing the organisers, volunteers, and parents for their continued investment in the moral and spiritual development of young people, charged participants to imbibe valuable lessons from the camp.
“When you engage in fruit-bearing lifestyle, people are bound to respect your God and honor your God. Everything is not about the pulpit, it’s about how you interact with the community.”
The Bishop was joined at the official opening ceremony by the Diocesan brigade, Chaplain Canon Daramola, his wife, Iyabo, other zonal chaplains across the Diocese, diocesan head of media, Mr Tunji Oguntuase and other special guests, including a former director of the Lagos state Office of Public Defender, Mrs Omotola Rotimi.
