Reflections on Creation Sunday: A Call to Ecological Conversion in Nigeria
In his encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis reminds us of our sacred responsibility toward the earth, stating: "This sister now cries out to us because of the harm we have inflicted on her by our irresponsible use and abuse of the goods with which God has endowed her. We have come to see ourselves as her lords and masters, entitled to plunder her at will." (Laudato Si’, 2)
As the Church in Nigeria celebrates Creation Sunday, we must honestly examine how we treat God’s gift of nature. Our beloved nation is burdened by severe environmental degradation. From the toxic oil spills and gas flaring suffocating the Niger Delta, to the mountains of plastic waste, clogged drainage systems, and littered streets in our urban centers, pollution has become an open sore. This ecological neglect harms not only the environment but also the health and dignity of our people.
We call upon the Government of Nigeria to take decisive and structured actions: establish dedicated environmental restoration agencies and specialized companies mandated to clean, remediate, and correct the ecological damage in severely polluted regions. Formulate and strictly enforce environmental policies that prohibit open dumping, enforce proper waste sorting, and eliminate indiscriminate street littering across all states. Invest in modern waste-to-energy infrastructure and recycling systems to maintain clean and dignified public spaces.
A Prayer for Our Nation
Lord Heavenly Father, Creator of heaven and earth, we thank You for the beauty and richness of our homeland, Nigeria. As we celebrate Creation Sunday, open the hearts of both our government leaders and the Church to work hand in hand in protecting Your creation. Grant us the wisdom, courage, and political will to correct our environmental errors, clean our streets, and restore our land. May our shared efforts leave behind a healthy, clean and thriving nation for generations to come. Amen.
