The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has acknowledged the positive developments witnessed in the country under President Bola Tinubu’s administration while expressing concerns over prevailing economic and security challenges.
In a communique issued at the end of their meeting held in Abuja from March 8 to 14, the bishops highlighted reforms in the petroleum sector, road rehabilitation, the introduction of a student loan scheme, the new minimum wage, and efforts to boost agriculture. The statement was jointly signed by CBCN President, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, and Secretary, Bishop Donatus Ogun.
“Our nation has recently witnessed some positive development. These include the reinvigoration of the petroleum industry, the rehabilitation of some dilapidated roads and the construction of new ones across the nation, the introduction of the student loan scheme, the new minimum wage, and the reduction in the debt service-to-revenue ratio and the proposal for a new tax regime,” the communique read.
The bishops also acknowledged improvements in the Nigeria Correctional Service, emphasizing the shift from punitive measures to reformation, rehabilitation, and reintegration of inmates. Additionally, they commended the efforts of security operatives in combating criminal activities.
However, the CBCN warned that these achievements are being overshadowed by worsening economic hardship, high food inflation, and insecurity.
“In spite of all these, our nation still has some serious challenges bordering on harsh socio-economic conditions, persistent insecurity across the nation, and rising youth unemployment and restiveness. There is a high cost of essential goods, including food. Cases of kidnapping and the mindless killing of innocent people still abound,” they stated.
The bishops also expressed disappointment over the conduct of the 2023 general elections, citing irregularities and a loss of public confidence in the electoral system. They called for stronger electoral laws and impartiality from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the judiciary to restore credibility in Nigeria’s democratic process.
As Nigeria grapples with economic and security concerns, the CBCN urged the government to take more decisive actions to alleviate citizens’ hardships and ensure lasting stability.