By Chinedu Madu
The Anglican Bishop of Amichi Diocese, Rt Rev Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, has called on the government to prioritize education in the national budget and ensure adequate monitoring for its implementation. Speaking at a press conference after inspecting Immanuel Anglican Church premises in Akwaihedi, Nnewi South LGA, Bishop Ikeakor expressed concern over the falling standards of education in Nigeria.
He condemned the practice of government interference in the appointment of heads of tertiary institutions, advocating instead for the academia to handle the process. The bishop also faulted the recruitment process for lecturers, calling for a more professional approach to ensure the right candidates are employed.
On the theme of the forthcoming 2nd Session of the 6th Synod of the Diocese, “Heathens In Church Uniforms: An Urgent Call For Re-Evangelisation And Proper Discipleship Of Church Members”, Bishop Ikeakor noted that many church members now view church as a social gathering, rather than a spiritual community. He emphasized the need for the Church to reclaim its role as the conscience of society.
The bishop commended Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Soludo, for his administration’s efforts in road construction, youth skills acquisition programs, and investments in education without borrowing. However, he encouraged the state government to do more to tackle insecurity and ensure proper equipment and recruitment of security personnel.
Bishop Ikeakor also challenged the federal government to address widespread poverty in the country, noting that palliatives alone are not enough to pull citizens out of poverty. The Synod, which will be hosted by Immanuel Anglican Church, Akwaihedi, for the first time in its over a century existence, will take place from June 19th to 22nd, 2025.
