Abuja: Fr. Damian Ikechukwu Nwankwo, Provincial Superior of the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) in Nigeria, has called on the government to take urgent and concrete steps to address the suffering of the poor, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable groups.
Speaking during a pastoral visit to St. Kizito Parish in the Archdiocese of Abuja, Fr. Nwankwo emphasized that the primary duty of government is to ensure justice, welfare, and protection for its citizens. He stressed that while the Church continues to provide humanitarian aid and pastoral care, it cannot replace the role of the State in addressing widespread poverty, displacement, and social inequality.
The Vincentian leader expressed concern over what he described as a growing culture of indifference in Nigeria, where the value of a person is often measured by financial status. He highlighted the neglect faced by pregnant women, people with disabilities, and those with mental health conditions, saying that such groups are left without sufficient care or opportunities.
Fr. Nwankwo also drew attention to the worsening situation of IDPs, many of whom have lost their homes and livelihoods due to conflict, natural disasters, and insecurity. He noted that displaced families are often unable to farm or work and must rely heavily on assistance from churches and aid organizations.
He criticized systems of political exclusion and nepotism, saying that access to education, employment, and public office should not be determined by wealth or connections. According to him, a just society must ensure equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of background.
The Vincentians, he added, will continue to uphold their mission of serving the marginalized, following their founder’s legacy of care for the poor. However, he insisted that government action is essential for long-term solutions to poverty and displacement.
Nigeria is currently facing multiple humanitarian challenges, including widespread poverty affecting more than half of its population, large-scale internal displacement caused by conflict and climate shocks, and growing food insecurity. In the northeastern states alone, nearly eight million people are in need of humanitarian assistance.
While international partners such as the World Bank and the United Nations have launched projects and funding appeals to support displaced populations, Fr. Nwankwo’s message underscores the urgent need for Nigerian leaders themselves to act decisively.
“The cry of the poor cannot be ignored,” he said, warning that history will judge leaders by how they respond to the suffering of their people.