Abiara urges improved welfare for security personnel

*Hails rescue of Oyo teachers, pupils

The Global Evangelist of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Prophet Samuel Kayode Abiara, has called on President Bola Tinubu to prioritise the welfare of security personnel and the families of officers who die in the line of duty.

Abiara appealed while reacting to the successful rescue of teachers and pupils abducted in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The cleric also commended President Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the nation’s security agencies for securing the freedom of the victims, who spent 56 days in captivity before regaining their freedom through a coordinated security operation.

Speaking at a press briefing, Abiara expressed gratitude over the safe return of the teachers and pupils, describing the rescue as a testament to the commitment of the government and security agencies to combating insecurity.

He praised the administration of President Tinubu for sustaining efforts to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, while urging the Federal Government to further improve the welfare of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies.

According to him, better salaries, allowances and welfare packages would boost the morale of security personnel and enhance their effectiveness in protecting lives and property.

Abiara also appealed to the Federal Government to ensure adequate support for the families of security officers who lost their lives while serving the country.

“I appeal directly to President Bola Tinubu to take proper care of the families of security personnel who sacrificed their lives for the nation. Their spouses and children should not be abandoned. Our soldiers risk everything in defence of Nigeria, and their welfare must remain a top priority,” he said.

On the country’s security situation, the cleric urged Nigerians not to lose confidence in the current administration, stressing that insecurity is a global challenge and not peculiar to Nigeria.

He attributed the rise in violence and moral decadence across the world to biblical prophecies concerning the end times, citing the days of Noah and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah as examples of periods characterised by widespread wickedness.

Abiara noted that countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom and France had also faced serious security threats, including terrorism linked to groups such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda, but eventually made significant progress in addressing them.

He expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its security challenges through sustained efforts by the government and security agencies.

The cleric also urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and continue supporting initiatives aimed at restoring peace and security across the country.

He further commended the unity displayed by Nigerians during the Oriire abduction, noting that Christians, Muslims and traditional worshippers joined together in prayer for the safe return of the victims.

“It was not just one religion that prayed. Nigerians from different faiths and ethnic backgrounds joined together in prayer, and we thank God that the children have returned safely. Let us remain peaceful and hopeful. Nigeria will overcome this difficult period,” Abiara said.