Group calls for economic reforms to reposition Nigeria

• Urges implementation of PIB

Nigeria must strive for justice and equity in all facets of national life and urgently undertake a reform of the economy to reposition her for greatness, oil and gas industry group, Petroleum Industry Christian Fellowship International (PICFI) has said.

The group, in a statement yesterday signed by its National Secretary, Osita Moneme, noted that the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which is now before the National Assembly, is a good development, stressing that the action to enact the legislation and implement the provisions must be urgent, comprehensive and forward-looking.

PICFI condemned corruption, injustice, poverty and the unfair distribution of national wealth culminating in the widening gap between the haves and have-nots, stressing that an urgent redress is inevitable “to avoid the judgement of God.”

The body said the absence of development in rural communities, especially the oil producing ones, is uncalled for and every effort must be made to reverse the ugly trend.

“Mercy, justice and equal access to rights must permeate the hearts and actions of all Nigerians for the country to enter into her fullness of glory foreordained by God.

“Besides, Nigerians must begin to give attention to the building of healthy homes as foundations for building a united nation. Our homes, when built on Godly principles, will become centres for the promotion of love for one another, service and for nurturing leaders who will be consumed with love for God, for others and the nation,” the group said.

On the current situation in the country, PICFI said: “Peaceful protests should be seen as a sign of a growing democracy, but violence, either in the shooting of peaceful protesters or in the looting and destruction of valuables and properties, must not be condoned for any reason.

“We call on the government to listen to the cries of its citizens while not tolerating those that want to take advantage of the situation to cause mayhem in Nigeria. All Christians are enjoined to unite in praying for divine intervention so that peace, unity and love with good governance can reign in our country.”