The Federal Government has restated its commitment to working closely with the Catholic Church to promote national development, peace, and unity in Nigeria.
This assurance was given by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during a goodwill message delivered at the First Plenary Meeting of 2026 of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria in Abuja on Sunday.
The message was delivered on behalf of the Federal Government and later shared in a statement posted on X by the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the SGF, Yomi Odunuga.
Describing the plenary as an important moment for both the Church and the nation, Akume said the gathering provided an opportunity for reflection, guidance, and direction at a time when Nigeria is facing serious social and economic challenges.
He thanked the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria for inviting him to the meeting and praised the long-standing contributions of the Catholic Church to Nigeria’s growth and stability.
According to him, the Church has played a major role in shaping Nigeria’s moral and social values over the years. He noted that the Church’s network of schools, hospitals, and humanitarian institutions across the country has made a strong impact on education, healthcare, and support for the poor and vulnerable.
“The contributions of the Catholic Church to education and healthcare are monumental,” Akume said. “Many Nigerians, regardless of their religious background, have benefited from the services provided by Catholic institutions.”
Across Nigeria, Catholic schools are known for discipline and quality education, while Catholic hospitals and clinics provide care in both urban and rural communities. In many remote areas, faith-based organisations often fill the gap where government facilities are limited.
Akume said Nigeria is currently at a defining moment in its history. According to him, citizens are yearning for peace, justice, economic stability, and responsible leadership. He stressed that the Church’s consistent call for good governance and national unity remains important in guiding the country.
He pointed out that pastoral letters and communiqués issued by Catholic bishops over the years have often addressed national issues such as corruption, insecurity, poverty, and elections. He said such messages reflect the conscience of the nation and challenge public officials to act with transparency and accountability.
Akume explained that these interventions should not be seen as political opposition but as moral guidance rooted in Christian values.
The SGF, who is also a Knight of St. John International, said there is a need to bridge faith and governance. He noted that public policies should not only focus on administrative efficiency but must also be guided by moral integrity.
Nigeria is a multi-religious country with Christianity and Islam as the two major faiths, alongside traditional beliefs. Over the years, religious bodies have played active roles in education, healthcare, and advocacy for social justice. However, there have also been periods of tension linked to religious and ethnic differences.
In his remarks, Akume stressed the importance of interreligious harmony and peaceful coexistence. He said Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength and not a source of division.
He also reaffirmed that the administration of Bola Tinubu remains committed to promoting peace, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu’s government has introduced economic reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and attracting investment. These reforms include changes in fuel subsidy policy and efforts to strengthen public institutions. While the government says the reforms are necessary for long-term growth, many Nigerians have expressed concerns about rising costs of living.
Akume acknowledged that national transformation requires patience, sacrifice, and collective effort. He said the government recognises the difficulties facing citizens and is working on policies to provide social protection for vulnerable groups.
“Let me assure you that the government remains committed to policies aimed at economic reform, institutional strengthening, and social protection for the most vulnerable,” he said.
He added that the prayers and moral support of the Church are valuable as the country works through its challenges.
In recent years, Nigeria has faced security concerns in various parts of the country, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes. Religious leaders have often called for dialogue, reconciliation, and understanding among communities.
Akume commended the Catholic Church for its efforts in promoting dialogue and reconciliation, especially in areas affected by conflict. He said faith-based organisations have helped to reduce tension and build trust among communities.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria is the body that brings together Catholic bishops from across the country. Its plenary meetings are held to discuss pastoral issues, national matters, and the direction of the Church in Nigeria. Resolutions from such meetings often address both spiritual and social concerns.
Akume expressed hope that the 2026 plenary meeting would produce resolutions that strengthen evangelisation, deepen pastoral care, and contribute to national stability and sustainable development.
He also praised the bishops for their leadership and resilience, noting that religious leaders play a key role in guiding their members during difficult times.
As Nigeria continues to face economic and social challenges, many citizens look to both political and religious leaders for direction and reassurance. The message delivered at the plenary suggests that the government is open to dialogue and cooperation with the Church in addressing national concerns.
