Joseph Akinfenwa, Bishop of Ibadan Diocese, has remarked that the prevailing economic conditions in Nigeria have caused significant distress to many citizens, despite initial assurances that the hardship would be temporary.

Akinfenwa conveyed this sentiment during his sermon at a ceremonial event where the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, consecrated four new bishops for the church.

The consecration took place at the Archbishop Vining Memorial Cathedral Church in Ikeja, Lagos.

The newly consecrated bishops include Ifedola Okupevi, the Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Lagos, and Ebenezer Saiki, the Bishop of Akoko Edo Diocese.

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Venerable Collins Babalola of the Anglican Diocese of Ajayi Crowther and Venerable Festus Nwafili of Ndokwa Diocese were also consecrated.

Akinfenwa highlighted the widespread suffering despite assurances of the temporary nature of the challenges.

He pointed out that in times of anguish, people often turn to clergymen for solace.

Akinfenwa expressed concern over the prevalent issues of corruption, crime, and cultural degradation in the country.

He remarked that the leadership Nigeria has experienced is reflective of the society it has cultivated.

In his advice to the newly consecrated bishops, Akinfenwa urged them to remain focused and steadfast in their duties, seeing their appointments as a divine calling to service rather than a personal accomplishment.