Lucas Advises FG to Restructure Factory Work for Youths

Rebecca Ejifoma

Rev. Brother Stephen Lucas of St. Dominic Catholic Church, Yaba, Lagos has advised the Nigerian government to address job structure in the country, especially factory works, to encourage Nigerian youths to earn better living.

He said this at a press briefing to mark his 57th year service in Nigeria, ahead of his preparation to finally depart Nigeria for his home in Chigaco, United States.

Brother Lucas, who is leaving Nigeria after his dedication to God and humanity since his arrival in the country in 1959, said he would be returning to his home town in Chicago after his send-forth, which takes place today at the St. Dominic Church, Yaba, Lagos.

He said, “After I received the letter from the authorities to return home at 84, I obediently accepted the same way I accepted when I left for Nigeria.”

On why the factory work should be restructured, he said, “A young boy walked up to me and told me how he earns just N25, 000 in a factory monthly. These young men will pay house rent and other bills. That should change.”

This is as the octogenarian, also said that all countries needed peace and joy to survive. “There are a lot of obstacles in developing nations. People are different. They think differently. So, we have to be patient. We have a lot of patience to practice and how to come together as one.”

Meanwhile, Mr. Gato Santos, who was commissioned from Rome to welcome Lucas on his arrival, said the Brother served God and humanity for the entire 57 years. He added that Lucas’ objective was to develop projects around the country.

“Although he is leaving, St. Dominic will never forget him. He helped both the church projects and families, too. He is known as a father of the sick, the poor and the homeless. He spent all his energy here,” he said.

Several beneficiaries and members of the parish alongside others were present to support him. They said his departure would not be easy to accept, “But we shall show him love.”