Oluyinka Akande, the bishop of Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Lagos West, has charged governments to address the current employment rate and poor remuneration to improve the lives of Nigerians.

In his message to the 18th annual synod of the diocese held at the Methodist Church in Mushin, Lagos, Mr Akande said the current employment rate and poor remuneration of workers constituted national embarrassment.

Mr Akande noted that the issues resulted in emigration of Nigerians, which he said was affecting the church as women were leaving the country and taking their husbands, who were ministers in the church, along with them.

He said it was disheartening that many states owed staff salaries despite the federal government’s increased monthly allocation of funds to them.

“It is more disheartening that some state governors still went to borrow money, notwithstanding the increased fund allocation,” he added.

“I urge governments at all levels to decisively tackle this avoidable situation.

“I also appeal that, as we reduce dependence on the importation of goods, the government should create an environment conducive to business,’’ he said.

He also challenged the government to tidy up the oil sector and bring those frustrating it to book since Nigeria’s economy depends on the oil industry.

The cleric challenged President Bola Tinubu to improve the nation’s economy, address food insecurity, eradicate corruption and keep his promises to Nigerians when he assumed office.

Mr Akande said the Methodist Church might consider establishing food banks in all its branches across the diocese and raising a committee on food security to address the issue.

Commenting on the synod theme, “Arise and Build’’, the bishop called on Christians to arise and build their families, churches and nations.

(NAN)