The secretary to the government of the federation, George Akume, has appealed to Nigerians not to resort to crime because of the country’s current challenges.

Mr Akume made the appeal in Abuja on Tuesday at the fourth quarterly meeting organised by the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council.

He stressed the urgent need to address the relationship between Nigeria’s natural resources and insecurity, highlighting that poor management of resources had worsened economic and social insecurities.

Mr Akume called for collaboration among religious leaders to promote sustainability and security, advocating for stable policies, structural changes, and improved governance.

The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, assured NIREC of the police’s commitment to partnering for peace and stability in Nigeria. He expressed hope for positive outcomes regarding natural resources and security.

“We are willing and ready to partner stakeholders to ensure we enjoy the natural resources entrusted to this country. On this note, we wish NIREC a successful celebration and look forward to partnering with you to increase harmony in this country.

“I pray that this meeting yields a positive declaration, especially concerning natural resources and security,” said the police chief.

The executive secretary of NIREC, Cornelius Omonokhua, noted that Nigeria’s resources have been a source of pain instead of a blessing.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, added that insecurity and natural resources have been a great challenge in the country, urging Nigerians to be steadfast in prayers.

(NAN)