Pst. Tom Takpatore, the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, Garki, Abuja, has called on President Bola Tinubu-led administration to improve the delivery of basic social services to Nigerians.
Takpatore made the call on the sideline of the 2024 Mid-Year Thanksgiving Service, on Sundays in Abuja.
He explained that improved service delivery and sustained provisions of the dividend of democracy would improve the quality of life of the people and strengthen their trust in government.
He said that Nigerians deserve basic social services, such as steady electricity, quality and functional education, quality and affordable healthcare services, and clean water, sanitation and hygiene facilities.
“These, when
provided, will improve the productivity and the quality of life of the people, and in the long run, impact positively on economic growth and sustainable development,” he said.
The cleric particularly called on Tinubu to ensure inclusion in the provisions of dividend of democracy across political party, religious, ethnicity and regional divide.
He pointed out that Nigeria has come a long way in its 25 years of uninterrupted democracy.
He, however, stressed that conscious efforts should be made to ensure that citizens feel the impact of democratic governance.
“There is the need, therefore, to reevaluate the journey so far, to determine areas of strengths, weaknesses, and what we need to do more to better the life of the people.
He expressed optimism that Tinubu would surmount the current economic hardship and build a resilient economy that would meet the needs of all citizens.
He noted that in spite of the harsh economic condition in the country, “there are a lot to thank God for”, adding that the situation would get better.
Takpatore explained that the mid-year thanksgiving service was organised to celebrate life and to give thanks to God.
“Once there is life, there is hope. We are not there yet, but we trust that with God on our side, we will overcome the challenges that are holding us back as a country. (NAN)
By Philomina Attah
